Bridging divides through art
Published
Groundbreaking Pasifika Artist
Michel Tuffery is an artistic and cultural ambassador between many worlds, including the many First Nations peoples of the Pacific, as well as those whose ancestors came as colonists and immigrants. In crossing these many worlds, Michel echoes the legacy of Tupaia, a Ra’iātean voyager who joined James Cook’s voyage in 1770, creating connections and artworks that come down to the present.
Journey into the vibrant world of Michel Tuffery, the Pasifika artist bridging environmental, cultural, and historical divides with his multidisciplinary art. From renowned sculptures and paintings to collaborative installations and performance art, Tuffery's work transcends mediums.
Australian National Maritime Museum
About Michel
Michel Tuffery is an Aotearoa New Zealand-based artist of Samoan, Rarotongan and Ma‘ohi Tahitian heritage. In his art practice, he plays the role of connector, working “in between” people and places and focusing a fresh lens on environmental, community, cultural and art historical divides.
He exhibits worldwide and has undertaken research and community residencies throughout the USA, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Asia, India, Australia, Aotearoa, and the Pacific. In 2008, Michel was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to art, but his real reward comes from enriching communities through his art.
The museum is proud to hold one of Michel Tuffery’s dynamic works, Faga Ofe E'a 1. This sculpture represents the Pacific Island ceremony to Tangaroa, the Polynesian god of the ocean and fishermen. It was used in a ceremony performed in November 1998, including traditional fire dancing and music as an act of propitiation to the gods for the seasonal harvest of coral worms.
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