Story: Samoans

Samoan artists (1st of 3)

Samoan artists

Samoan artists have made a major contribution to the New Zealand art scene. Michel Tuffery, born in Wellington of Samoan descent, likes to poke gentle fun at the negative impact of Western culture on the Pacific Islands. This 1999 work, entitled ‘Bull’, was constructed from corned beef tins. It refers to the way imported foodstuffs have undermined Pacific fishing, cultivation and cooking skills.

Using this item

Pātaka - Porirua Museum of Arts and Cultures
Object by Michel Tuffery

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

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/1627/samoan-artists (accessed 29 March 2024)

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