Three young artists examine the notion of Niuean art in new exhibition ‘683 Baby xo’
683 Baby xo, a new exhibition opening Friday 9 December at Tautai Pacific Contemporary Arts Trust, presents new work by Dahlina Taueu, Quentin Tauetau-Tohitau and Kordell Cameron.
The international dialing code has become a popular way of identifying and proudly representing one’s country. 683 has become a modern language replacement for Niue. Like waving the national flag, it is now shorthand for a strong and staunch declaration of Niuean nationality.
The new work of three young Niuean artists—Dahlina Taueu, Quentin Tauetau-Tohitau and Kordell Cameron—calls for an exploration into the notion of Niuean art. Their work for 683 Baby xo examines the complexities of being New Zealand-born Niueans, craving that connection to their Niuean heritage while acknowledging their perspective as diaspora youth.
Critical conversations arise from the juxtaposition between reverence for upholding tradition and young people respectfully pushing boundaries with their own contemporary interpretations. With the support and guidance of their families and peers, the artists' work in this safe space where they are able to give traditional art a contemporary spin. In doing so, they are creating an expanded understanding of Niuean art for the viewer and the community at large.
While each of the artists in 683 Baby xo have their own individual aspirations, like learning more about Niuean customs and inspiring younger Niuean generations, collectively they represent a generation that seeks links to Niue using fresh innovative modes of making; Dahlina Taueu through Niuean weaving and illustration, Quentin Tauetau-Tohitau through digital painting and illustration, and Kordell Cameron through an intricate installation of filmmaking and live soundscape mixing.
Exhibition details:
683 Baby xo
Dahlina Taueu, Quentin Tauetau-Tohitau and Kordell Cameron
Friday 9 December, 2022 – Saturday 18 February, 2023.
Tautai Gallery, Level 1, 300 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central
Open 10am–4pm, Tuesday–Friday | 11am – 4pm, Saturdays.
SUMMER HOURS
Tautai will be closed from Saturday 17 December 2022 – Monday 9 January 2023.