Brett Taefu
SummaryBrett Taefu, a proud New Zealand-born Samoan artist based in Pōneke, Wellington, brings a distinctive voice to the creative arts. Originally from the villages of Tagunamanono and Salamumu, Taefu is inspired by art that provokes laughter, discomfort, deep emotion, and reflection.
A 2022 graduate of Toi Whakaari, Taefu possesses a diverse and dynamic skill set. He has worked with the trailblazing Pacific Arts Organisation Le Moana as a social media coordinator, stylist, and creative promoter across festivals such as Pasifika United, Te Kiwa Nui, and the Measina Festival (2021–2023). With a background in athletics and a keen eye for style, design, and aesthetics, Taefu’s multifaceted talents enrich his work as an actor.
Recently, Taefu co-directed and starred in Sonshine, a music video for Moana Leota. He also served as a facilitator for The Gentle Boys Ponder, a two-week series of creative workshops in Invercargill designed for Māori and Pacific youth aged 12–20. Collaborating with six other Toi Whakaari graduates, Taefu continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of Pasifika creatives.
Creative Process
My Feet Can’t Touch the Ground is a series of moving images that draws from a day in my life as a dad. As someone who appreciates abstract content, I find joy in elements that may not immediately make sense but are pleasing to the eye. In our daily lives, we are inundated with content on social media—constantly consuming snippets of others' experiences, opinions, and triumphs. This project is my response, a way to highlight what truly matters to me today.
My inspiration comes from the joy my son brings into our lives. Watching him move around the room, trying to fill every empty space, fills me with delight. His eyes sparkle with curiosity as he decides what to eat first from his plate, and his non-stop babbling reflects his earnest attempts to communicate with us, his mum and dad. These seemingly mundane moments are rich with meaning, revealing a vibrant inner world that I want to capture.
As an artist, it can be easy to get caught up in the conflict and sadness that often dominate the narrative in the world. I aimed to create something joyful and positive, a counterpoint to the heaviness we sometimes encounter. Each piece in this series is an homage to the simple activities that define my daily life as a father, offering a glimpse into the beauty of these fleeting moments.
My creative process is deeply personal. I often start with ideas that might seem plain or nonsensical, yet I strive to curate them in a stylistic and tasteful manner. Capturing my son’s activities involves careful observation—selecting the right moments, choosing colours that resonate within my artistic space, and considering how these elements come together in each frame.
I’m fortunate to have my partner involved in this creative journey. She plays a crucial role, questioning my choices and holding me accountable for my decisions, which helps refine my vision and deepen my work.
Havea Latu, the master behind the camera, is another vital collaborator. Having worked with Havea on various projects, I consider it a blessing to have his unique perspective and expertise on board. He brings his own flavor to our creative endeavors, enhancing the work we produce together.
Ultimately, My Feet Can’t Touch the Ground seeks to celebrate the beauty of everyday life, capturing the joy, wonder, and connection that come from the simplest of moments. Through this project, I hope to resonate with both children and adults alike, inviting them to find joy in the ordinary.
Creative Workspace
My creative workspace is nestled in the comfort of my living room, a space that holds the essence of my daily life. Here, I spend countless hours creating, laughing, and sometimes crying, all of which are integral to my artistic process. I’m fortunate to share this space with my son and partner, making it a hub of creativity and connection.
On some days, my workspace is a delightful chaos, filled with toys and books scattered across the floor. This vibrant clutter reflects the playful energy of my son, whose curiosity and imagination inspire me. It’s a reminder that creativity often thrives amid disorder, where every object tells a story and sparks new ideas.
Other days, the space transforms into a tranquil haven, with sunlight streaming through the windows, illuminating the room and casting gentle shadows. In these moments of quiet, when my partner and son are away at work, the room feels peaceful and still. This silence allows me to reflect and focus, giving me the space to dive deeper into my artistic pursuits.
The living room, with its blend of noise and stillness, chaos and calm, becomes a canvas of its own. It serves as both a sanctuary and a playground for creativity, where I can explore my thoughts and ideas. The presence of my family enriches this environment, reminding me of the joy and inspiration that comes from shared experiences.
Ultimately, my artistic space is more than just a physical location; it’s a catalyst for my creativity as both a father and an artist. This environment allows me to seamlessly blend my roles, providing the emotional richness that fuels my best work. The playful energy of my son and the supportive presence of my partner inspire me to push boundaries and explore new ideas.
Fale-ship Questionnaire
What’s one word that describes your work?
Alofa. This word embodies my deep love for my son and serves as the foundation of my creative expression.
How does it feel to be showcasing your work from your creative space?
I feel incredibly blessed to present my work from my own living room. This isn’t just a showcase; it’s a sneak peek into my world—a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes of my creativity and my life.
What were some highlights and challenges you came across during your residency?
A major highlight was having my son in the frame during the creative process. The excitement in his eyes was a powerful motivator for me, fueling my creativity. This journey has taught me patience and the importance of trusting my own vision, even when things get tough.
What are some coping mechanisms or creative processes you use that help maintain your creative well-being?
I prioritise checking in with myself regularly. When I feel stuck, I find that getting outside for some fresh air truly helps to reinvigorate my creativity. Nature has a way of sparking new ideas and refreshing my perspective.
What is inspiring you right now?
I draw inspiration from the world around me, my family and friends, and my own experiences. It’s a tapestry of influences that fuels my passion and creativity.
How important is it to showcase the lived experiences of Pasifika artists?
It’s absolutely crucial. I want to highlight the positive aspects of Pasifika artists and their journeys. My work reflects my current experiences and aspirations as an artist, and I believe it’s essential to share these stories.
When your Fale-ship Residency is eventually launched online, what would you like people to take away?
When my residency launches online, I hope people can take away whatever resonates with them—be it the image of a new wave in parenting or the notion of passive resistance and reclaiming a positive parenting journey. It’s all about interpretation and connection.
If you could invite anyone to have a seat at your table, who would it be and why?
If I could invite anyone to my table, I would invite my late father and late father-in-law. Sharing a meal with them, along with my son, would create a beautiful moment of connection across generations, celebrating our heritage and love.
What advice would you give to other Pasifika Practitioners who want to apply for future Fale-ship Opportunities?
My experience with Fale-ship has been truly transformative. I encourage you to lean into the unknown—embrace uncertainty and appreciate not knowing exactly what you’re doing. Give yourself the time and space to create, even if it’s just for a few moments each day. Small reflections and feelings can lead to significant results. Trust your gut and apply for Fale-ship; it’s a valuable stepping stone for your artistic journey.
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