"Next time is a response to the experience and aftermath of visiting Niue as the lafaiki Artist in residence 2018. The work is also a continuation from previous work I can see you for who you really are exhibited at Mangere Arts Centre in 2017 which explored morphing imagery to create a narrative to define a position of Niueaness/Pacificness, a naïve point of view through a Western lens, a voyeuristic relationship.The experience of the residency, though essential to initiate understanding of Niueaness/Pacificness has still left a sense of unknowing, a type of awkwardness. The imagery within the work are moments of experience that connect/disconnect and are defined memories. There is a constant want to understand more and create further familial connections."
"Next time is a response to the experience and aftermath of visiting Niue as the lafaiki Artist in residence 2018. The work is also a continuation from previous work I can see you for who you really are exhibited at Mangere Arts Centre in 2017 which explored morphing imagery to create a narrative to define a position of Niueaness/Pacificness, a naïve point of view through a Western lens, a voyeuristic relationship.
The experience of the residency, though essential to initiate understanding of Niueaness/Pacificness has still left a sense of unknowing, a type of awkwardness. The imagery within the work are moments of experience that connect/disconnect and are defined memories. There is a constant want to understand more and create further familial connections."
First exhibited in the group show Solid as a Rock, Corban Arts Centre, Auckland (2019)
Two of the artist's parallel worlds combined: wood chopping and their Polynesian culture.
The disapproval of family members is physically manifested and endured.
Two of the artist's parallel worlds are combined: woodchopping and their Polynesian culture.
Apelu explores the mythology surrounding Hine-nui-te-pō, the daughter of the god Tāne.
An Interview with Darcell Apelu
Darcell Apelu talks to Mark Williams about a recent residency in Yorkshire spent contemplating her practice.