Auckland, NEW ZEALAND — Auckland group show Moana Waiwai, Moana Pāti, is taking a deep dive inside artist Melissa Gilbert's distinctve neo-nesian, earth punk aesthetic.

Gilbert is an artist, storyteller and student, who focuses on “the constant talanoa of identity, connection and healing”.

Talanoa means to unravel, untie and examine through discussion in Samoan. Gilbert’s work is heavily influenced by her lineage rooted in Tonga, Samoa and Fiji.

Her multi-faceted practice includes performance, painting, moving image and installation. And with an honors degree in fine arts still underway, that list may morph more.

Just like her work, Gilbert’s distinctive style is a blend of influences and experiences.

Gilbert is part of a group show Moana Waiwai, Moana Pāti, on until September 25th, at Tautai, the contemporary Pacific Arts Trust, on Auckland’s Karangahape Rd.

This Nigel Borell-curated show presents a diverse range of work by nine Pacific artists, developed during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Borne out of Tautai’s Fale-ship program, an initiative to support artists working across a range of artistic disciplines to develop and make work at home.

Read more and see more photos at Stuff NZ