CREATIVE PEARLS
With the world as your oyster, our community-led workshop programme Creative Pearls, gives Moana artists and knowledge-holders the opportunity to deliver their own workshop concept with support from Tautai.
Recent / Coming Up
Poetry Workshop
Led by Dani Kionasina
Sat 24 May
12pm – 2pm
Tautai, Level 1, 300 Karangahape Rd, Auckland 1010
We are excited to announce our next Creative Pearls programme: Poetry with Dani Kionasina, a thought-provoking Samoan/Welsh poet and writer. Through talanoa, creativity, and community building, Dani will offer awhi (support) in a welcoming space for writers of all levels, wherever you are on your writing haerenga (journey).
Participants will enjoy an in-depth tour, guided by Linda Va’aelua, the artist behind Borne and Bred, using the exhibition as inspiration for your writing.
If you’re looking to develop your poetry skills, connect with others, and engage deeply with our upcoming exhibition, this workshop is for you.
All materials provided to support your learning.
Free parking for registered participants at Wilson Parking – 24 Mercury Lane.
Suitable for ages 12 and up
Spaces are limited. Please register to secure your spot.
About Dani Kionasina
Dani Kionasina is a Samoan (Falealili, Falelatai)/Welsh author, artist, publisher and teacher from West Aukilani. In 2024, she published her debut poetry collection Tusitala, along with a number of reviews and articles that celebrated Moana stories. Through an ever-expanding range of multidisciplinary creative projects, Dani Kionasina aims to amplify Pacific and Māori voices in the arts and beyond.
Past Workshops
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Tapa Su'i
Jasmine Tuia
Through stitching and embroidery, participants explored Siapo Mamanu, learnt key siapo terminology, and gained insight into its cultural significance.
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From My Lips To Yours: Exploring Poetry Through The Lens of Reciprocity.
Dani Kionasina
From My Lips To Yours: Exploring Poetry Through The Lens of Reciprocity was a free poetry workshop in collaboration with KBA’s Art Late.
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Writing, Pitching & Funding: The Trinity of Being an Artist in the 21st Century
Zech Soakai
This was a free full-day workshop that explored the art of writing—whether for personal expression, community engagement, or securing funding. Led by the talented writer and poet, Zech Soakai, this was an invaluable opportunity for Tagata-Moana practitioners to deepen their skills and navigate the world of arts funding with confidence.
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‘Āpi’i Raranga Kete (Basket Weaving)
Teokotā’i Paitai
‘Āpi’i Raranga Kete was a free, fully booked 2-day workshop designed for participants to learn how to make, complete and take home their very own kete. The workshop was led by experienced Moana creative, Teokotā’i Paitai.