M A T A L A

A safe space for indigenous men to share through digital Talanoa and cultural exchange.

Create by: Hōhua Ropate Kurene & Tapuaki Helu

"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".

Fakalofa lahi atu and warm pacific greetings,

FAFSWAG Arts Collective and the creative team behind MATALA, would love to invite you to the launch of this project on Saturday 31st July, 8.00pm at the Basement Theatre.

In the summer of 2020 FAFSWAG artists Hōhua Ropate Kurene and Tapuaki Helu embarked on a journey to document a series of informal conversations with Indigenous men from across the country. Resulting in a series of audio essays that capture a snapshot of their context and lived experience. The MATALA project explores Pacific notions of manhood, cultural identity, the body, relationships and intimacy, spirituality, gender and sexuality. This resource investigates our relationship to the land and our unique surroundings, as both native and immigrants living within the diaspora in Aotearoa.

This event marks the official launch of MATALA, which will roll out on all major podcasting platforms and all FAFSWAG social networks. Please join our team of creatives for a panel discussion and some food to celebrate. Facilitated by Tim Swann, MATALA artists Hōhua Ropate Kurene and Tapuaki Helu along with Producer Tanu Gago will discuss the creative process and the intentions behind the project.

This work was created with support from Creative New-Zealand and Pacific health providers Le Va. With support from Te Oro Centre of Music and Arts, City Gallery Wellington and FAFSWAG Arts Collective. Created by Hōhua Ropate Kurene and Tapuaki Helu, with sound design by Justin Rodenas and produced by Tanu Gago and Elyssia Wilson-Heti.