Samoan Artist Siblings find Common Ground to exhibit together in Tamaki Makaurau for the first time - World Exclusive
Ponsonby, Auckland, NZ

Exhibition Title: Common Ground
Date: 23-29 October 2023, 10am - 4pm; Join Us at the LAUNCH PARTY on Monday 23 October 6 - 9pm
Location: Ponsonby Central, SHOP 8, 136 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland, New Zealand
Featured Artists: Luana Asiata x James Asiata

In a celebration of the connections that bind us to our environment, people, and art, Luana Asiata and 3SP presents ‘Common Ground’. 

London based Luana Asiata, returns home to NZ after more than two decades away, to exhibit alongside older brother and Tamaki Makaurau resident James Asiata, for a spectacular Pop-up Exhibition in Ponsonby. Separated by the currents that make up life, the prevailing artistic winds have favoured a first time collaboration between the duo originally from Mangere. 

Luana Asiata, who is spearheading the initiative, studied at Elam School of Fine Arts. The London based mother of two says: “Returning to Auckland, my hometown, is a deeply personal and artistic journey. I’m able to reconnect with my family and community in Mangere where my art journey began.”

Luana Asiata’s paintings are inspired by her love of reductive abstract shapes, colour and pattern found in nature, architecture and photography. Her unique style encapsulates a place, its people and energy through gestural strokes and intuitive mark making.

She continues “I’m very excited to share my work, to celebrate my roots and to inspire aspiring artists - Pacific Island artists especially”.

James Asiata who lives in Manurewa is a graduate from Whitecliffe Art School, and attended University of North Dakota. He says “Returning to the art world after a hiatus is a gratifying and exciting experience - it's been far too long”.

James Asiata’s paintings utilise the styles of Abstract Expressionism with an emphasis on brush stroke and color. His new series takes on a neutral colour palette inspired by the tactile nature of working with rubber and canvas, materials he used daily in previous roles.

He goes on to say “This wandering discovery has led me to black and white hues against an expressive open-air landscape and loosely painted figures, it is my attempt to be at peace with nature”.

Luana’s global whanau of international artist friends will also be exhibiting in the ‘Common Ground’ shared space.  

“We are both excited to be showing our work together in Tamaki Makaurau and hope everyone enjoys the show as much as we have putting it together”.

Opening night
Join us at the launch party of Common Ground on Monday 23 October from 6pm - 9pm at Ponsonby Central Shop 8 Ponsonby Auckland. There will be drinks flowing at the launch party courtesy of our generous sponsors Yeastie Boys and Matahawi Estate. You’ll have the opportunity to meet artists Luana & James Asiata and 3SP Siliga Sani Muliaumasealii who helped organise the show.

Please RSVP hello@luanaasiata.com or book your free ticket on eventbrite here as space is limited.

For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Luana Asiata  hello@luanaasiata.com  +44 07437 195 095
James Asiata jamesandrewasiata@hotmail.co.nz  0211874816 
Siliga Sani Muliaumasealii siligasani@proton.me

International Artists:
‘Common Ground’ proudly welcomes a diverse roster of international artists, each bringing their own perspective on the theme of connection. Participating artists: Nadia Attura, James D Wilson, Martin Grover, Cherry McAlister, Courtenay Kusitor,  Michelle House, Leon Nikoo, Abi Everett, Emma Price, Fabio Almeida, Steve Wilde, Alana McDowell, Charlotte Gerard, Sharon King-Chai, Justine Ellis, Claire Chandler, Angry Dan, Aartmaandme.

About the Organizers:
‘Common Ground’ is organised by Artist Luana Asiata & ‘3SP’ (Siliga Sani Samoa Presents) committed to promoting art and culture across borders. The exhibition is a testament to their belief that art has the power to unite and transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. 3SP creative matai Siliga Sani Muliaumasealii is a dynamic entrepreneur dedicated to promoting and celebrating the works of Samoan and Pacific Islander artists on the global stage. Muliaumaseali’i’s passion for nurturing talent and fostering cross - cultural connections is a lifelong commitment. 

His success as progenitor & creative director of the GAFA Arts Collective - the UK & Europes first Samoan Arts Entity- is testimony to this vision, one that he will continue with 3SP.

Special thanks to @NZSocietyUK for funding and their continued support in making this exhibition possible.