Doron Semu
Fue
29cm x 86cm
2023
U'a (paper mulberry), Togo ink, Indian ink and Gum Arabic
I recently learned that Sāmoa once held the belief that the spirit of our ancestors would visit us in the form of butterflies and moths. Similarly, this piece looks the spaces we have to house butterflies, and give our ancestors the opportunity to visit us more often with guidance and secrets. In this garden we see Hibiscus and Fue, vines that are native to Sāmoa but considered invasive. While Fue can overgrow established trees, they also flower and attract our polenating ancestors.
About the Artist:
Doron Semu (He/They) is a Siapo maker of Sāmoan/Palagi descent, hailing from the villages of Salelesi, Falelatai, Falelima and Asau. As Siapo was once a declining practice, Doron imagines a future where every home and Sāmoan will be adorned in our own patterns and cloth. Through his use of Siapo Mamanu and workshops, Doron tells stories of increased visibility and representation of MVPFAFF+ Pasifika Rainbow joy. Doron's practice is centred on creating a safer community for Pasifika Rainbow and expanding the community of Siapo makers in Aotearoa.
