Pandanus, cream organza and black satin ribbon, shells, fishing line, black cotton fabric; weaving and beading
Displaced, disconnected, depressed and lonely, Please, can I weave with you? is my cry out for connection to everything Samoan. It is the heartache for home that we feel when we move to urban spaces to make it our new home. It is also an invitation to others who share the desire to connect back so that we can remember and create something new together, here and now.
I have salvaged the ruins of our most basic and most treasured fala (mat) by weaving new designs to shape it into a Samoan ula, or breastplate. Weaving this breastplate connects skills that I have learnt here in my new home to our ancient village craft, our stories, language and relationships.
Please, can I weave with you? is an invitation to craft an interconnected and interwoven urban identity, to search for and create together new meaning and connections.
Tags: cross cultural, fibre, historical, home, identity
Aunty Maryann this piece is amazing! I can’t wait to share it with the rest of the world. A new and exciting way of seeing art, both traditional and modern.
A very strong piece, cant wait to see more of your work!
hot stuff sista!
keep on rockin’ your samoan bling
Your words and your pieces- both art and jewelry- speak to the ancient and innovative in me. Admiring the way it clasps too- I love how your eyes, imagination, heart, spirit and hands work- weaving together strength, culture and beauty.
Beautiful stuff Maryann. Keep it coming. Will definitely come and have a look at the real thing!
It is a stunning piece. Takes the use of traditional designs and processes up a notch from modern/urban and exotic decoration to a real statement. I think its beautiful and would feel strong if I were to wear it.
Bula vinaka. Talofa lava. Kia ora…That’s the beauty and power of art and craft. It encourages interpretation and dialogue.
Looks like an adult bib? There’s a Fijian flavour about it. Bula vinaka.
Inspiring and beautiful. We are very proud of you!!
An inspiring piece of art work that any Samoan would be proud of!!!!