Uploaded November 2019 | Updated September 2026, 6 days ago
New Zealand-based independent artist and curator Ema Tavola unpacks power and privilege in the South Pacific through the lens of the art world.
With the unbalanced power dynamic of the arts ecology ever-visible, and the experiences of art world Othering becoming increasingly clear, Tavola argues that moves to diversify arts programming are too often tokenistic and rarely representative of systemic change. Instead, confronting disturbing truths and creating space for uncomfortable conversations is a necessary part of challenging the value system and institutionalisation of arts and culture in the colonised South Pacific.
By considering the complex anthropology of race, class, intellectualism and privilege that is embedded within gallery walls, Tavola reflects on 15 years of practice-based research to discuss how enabling the genuine presence of Pacific art, artists and audiences in institutions is not a radical act, but rather a conscious decolonisation of the Gallery and its potential.
New Zealand-based independent artist and curator Ema Tavola unpacks power and privilege in the South Pacific through the lens of the art world.
With the unbalanced power dynamic of the arts ecology ever-visible, and the experiences of art world Othering becoming increasingly clear, Tavola argues that moves to diversify arts programming are too often tokenistic and rarely representative of systemic change. Instead, confronting disturbing truths and creating space for uncomfortable conversations is a necessary part of challenging the value system and institutionalisation of arts and culture in the colonised South Pacific.
By considering the complex anthropology of race, class, intellectualism and privilege that is embedded within gallery walls, Tavola reflects on 15 years of practice-based research to discuss how enabling the genuine presence of Pacific art, artists and audiences in institutions is not a radical act, but rather a conscious decolonisation of the Gallery and its potential.
