Story: Samoans

‘Tapa‘au’ (2nd of 3)

‘Tapa‘au’

This 1992 lithograph is by Fatu Feu‘u, who was born on the island of Savai‘i and came to New Zealand to study art. His work has given fresh meaning to traditional Samoan motifs. In ‘Tapa‘au’, the Samoan word for a woven coconut mat, the white frangipani blossom and frigate birds are symbols of birth and life.

Using this item

Auckland Art Gallery – Toi o Tāmaki
Lithograph by Fatu Feu'u

Permission of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Lupematasila Melani Anae, 'Samoans - Contributions to New Zealand', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/1632/tapaau (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Lupematasila Melani Anae, published 8 Feb 2005, reviewed & revised 7 Sep 2022 with assistance from  Lupematasila Melani Anae