Tevita Latu is a prominent artist from Haveluloto, Tonga. His studio is a rambling fale positioned on the banks of the Fanga’uta Lagoon, on the island of Tongatapu. Joining him each night in the studio to drink kava and make art are members of Seleka, a club founded by Latu and fellow artist Taniela Petelo. Known by the Selekarians as “Buddha,” Latu uses his art making skills to teach the young Selekarian artists to find their individual voices through art. Whilst Latu’s practice is anchored primarily in painting, he also utilizes collage and mixed media. His imagery stems from his fascination with Modernist artists. Latu states that he is “heavily inspired by Basquiat and Picasso.” Blended with traditional Tongan motifs, Latu’s work is a hybrid of cultures where personal and political stories are imbedded in his trademark style.
