Samoan master carver, Tuailevaoola Pio’Timu, will be showcasing a live demonstration of traditional Samoan wood carving at the Fale Tele, Unitec, Tuesday 19th March, from 9.30am to 2.30pm.
Tua Pio has trained as a master carver over the last 30 years and will be carving a pou (column) onsite to showcase the hand carving methods, techniques and styles used in traditional Samoan based wood carving and art.
Tua Pio’s family have a strong history and connection with traditional woodcarving and were involved in the construction and decoration of the Aggie Grey resort in Samoa. He will also be carving the pou for the Tauvaesina New Early Childhood Centre in Mangere.
The showcase is the idea of Unitec graduate Petelo Esekielu of Tagaloa Designs, who will be graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture in April. Petelo hopes the workshop, which includes interactive demonstrations of siapo (tapa), will inspire the interest of a new generation of young Samoan artists and designers.
Timed to coincide with Auckland Pasifika Month, visitors to the Pasifika festival, students and anyone who is interested in Pasifika culture and art are invited to attend and watch Pio at his craft.
Live Samoan carving demonstration
9.30am – 2.30pm, Tuesday 19 March 2013
Fale Tele, Unitec
Gate 1, Building 1, Carrington Road, Mt Albert
Tua Pio will also be at the Pasifika Festival (9 March), ASB Polyfest (15-17 March) and Auckland Museum (23 March)