MATALA
Matala 'oe fonua is a term often used by Tongans to describe the growth of flowers or vegetation. It refers to the nature of life, growth, dispersal and regeneration.
Centred around the personal narratives of Indigenous men from around the country, MATALA is a series of audio essay’s looking at Pacific notions of manhood, at times redefining what it means to identify as an Indigenous man within contemporary Aotearoa.
Created by FAFSWAG Artists Tapuaki Helu and Hohua Ropate Kurene, produced by Tanu Gago & Elyssia Wilson-Heti. With production and sound design by Justin Rodenas. This digital resource was created with support from Creative New Zealand and Pacific health providers Le Va.
The MATALA PROJECT acknowledges our indigenous ancestors, past, present and emerging, as well as Tangata Whenua of Aotearoa. The natural indigenous custodians, whose sacred ancestral lands and waters this work was recorded on.
With special thanks to our venue partners and the awesome team at Te Oro Music and Arts centre.
“I JUST WANTED TO CREATE beautiful WORKS THAT REFLECTED ME AND the people around me” - Tapuaki helu