Fatu Feu’u ONZM

Fatu Feu’u ONZM (b. 1946) is a foundational figure in contemporary Pacific art in Aotearoa. Born in Poutasi, Sāmoa, Feu’u moved to New Zealand in 1966 and became a full-time artist in 1988. His practice draws on Samoan cultural knowledge and forms including siapo, tatau, weaving and carving, bringing Pacific traditions into a contemporary visual language. 

Feu’u’s significance to Tautai is fundamental. In the 1980s, he and a group of Pacific artists came together with a shared vision to support and promote Pacific visual artists at a time when contemporary Pacific art was still gaining recognition in Aotearoa. Feu’u formalised Tautai as a charitable trust in 1995 and has continued as a patron, mentor and advocate for Pacific artists. 

For Tautai’s 40th anniversary, Feu’u represents the organisation’s origins and its enduring commitment to community, advocacy and the visibility of contemporary Pacific art. His legacy extends beyond his own practice through the generations of artists, relationships and opportunities that Tautai has helped to nurture.