Pro-Chancellor Caren Rangi and Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi embrace after he is presented with the doctorate. Photo: Massey University
Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi, who was born in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, and is now based in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, has earned widespread recognition for his innovative works that incorporate Pacific Island and Māori iconography. His mastery of traditional Pan-Pacific lashing techniques, known as lalava, and his contemporary reinterpretation of these patterns, have made him a pioneer in the field of Pacific art.
Mr Tohi's passion for lalava and its cultural significance extends far beyond its visual appeal. As a master craftsman of lalavaometry, he has transformed this ancient form of lashing into an abstract language that conveys cultural history, knowledge and identity. His works explore the intricate geometry of lalava, which represents a philosophy of balance in daily life and symbolises connections to cultural memory.
In Mr Tohi's own words, lalava patterns advocate balance in daily living and are metaphorical and physical ties to cultural knowledge.
"I have identified a visual language within the lalava that was not only used by our ancestors for voyaging, but it communicated principles of cultural knowledge and history. For me the sennit patterns of the Pacific convey our memories and experiences, as well as carry us from place to place."
His contribution to the cultural landscape of both Tonga and Aotearoa New Zealand is extensive, with his pieces featured in major public collections such as the Auckland Art Gallery and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. Mr Tohi's works have travelled the world, with exhibitions in Japan, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom, showcasing his commitment to promoting understanding and appreciation of Pacific culture on an international stage.
One of Mr Tohi's defining moments came in 2004, when he was commissioned by the Samoan Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese, to lash a Fale Maota at Nofo'ali'i near Apia. The theme of this installation celebrated the intertwined histories of Tonga and Samoa, and in recognition of his dedication, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese bestowed upon Mr Tohi the title Sopolemalama, meaning 'bringer of light'. This recognition highlighted the profound impact of Mr Tohi's work, which not only honours traditional Tongan craftsmanship but also reimagines it in a contemporary context, often incorporating materials such as steel, stone, wool and even coloured paint on canvas.
Mr Tohi's international stature has grown steadily since his early years as an artist, with his first commission for the New Zealand Embassy in Saudi Arabia in 1987. He has since held numerous solo exhibitions, with notable shows at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth and the Tjibaou Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia. His sculptures have been commissioned for prestigious public sites, including the Polynesian Cultural Centre in Hawai'i, the Wan Solara Pasifika Section at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University in Wellington, and the Te Auaunga Awa Outdoor Learning Classroom in Auckland.
As a teacher and mentor, Mr Tohi has contributed significantly to the development of Pacific artists. He has served as an instructor at the Rangimarie Arts and Crafts Centre, was a founding member of Te Kupenga in New Plymouth and has been involved with numerous residencies and cultural initiatives, including as the Pacific Heritage Artist in Residence at Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland. His educational influence extends to the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Hawai'i, where he has shared his expertise in Pacific art and heritage.
Mr Tohi has been recognised with several prestigious awards, including the Creative New Zealand Senior Pacific Artist Award in 2009. He has participated in high-profile exhibitions such as the Biennale D'art Contemporain in France and the Asia Pacific Triennial in Brisbane. His work continues to resonate globally, fostering connections across cultures and offering a unique perspective on the role of art in preserving and evolving cultural narratives.
Soana Pomaka, Principal of Tāmaki College in Auckland, has known Mr Tohi since childhood. She wrote a letter of support to the Honorary Awards Committee at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, in which she states Mr Tohi's contributions to the art world are significant and far-reaching.
"Filipe's dedication to his craft and contributions to the art community make him a truly fitting candidate for this prestigious honour. His work embodies the values of creativity, cultural preservation and innovation, which align perfectly with Massey University's mission and values. In addition, Filipe has maintained strong connections with both academic and artistic communities, often participating in workshops, lectures and exhibitions that benefit students and aspiring artists: an unselfish and collegial approach which is to be commended.
"Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi possesses a very special kind of talent - a kind that is seldom seen. This talent has been the catalyst for a remarkable career and has enabled him to make a very significant contribution to the world of art. High-level recognition of a practitioner such as Filipe would not only be greatly deserved on a personal level - it would also be a fillip to future generations of Polynesian artists."
Toi Rauwhārangi College of Creative Arts Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Maile says the College is honoured to have one of Mr Tohi's works on display.
"One of Mr Tohi's major welded aluminium works, Poutaha, is on display on the Pukeahu campus. It was commissioned in 2014 and has been a guiding creative form within Massey University since that time. His works have been shared with students across the College as exemplars of contemporary Pacific cultural expression. We are so proud to have been a part of bringing this work into being, for our staff and students, and for the broader Te Whanganui-a-Tara people."
Dean Pacific Professor Palatasa Havea was another champion of Mr Tohi being bestowed with an honorary doctorate.
"It was a delight to have a worthy nominee for this award. Mr Tohi is highly respected in the international creative art community. People see and admire his work in many cities in New Zealand, throughout the Pacific, and beyond."
Dr Dean Peterson, Director of Collections and Research at Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, which houses six of Mr Tohi's artworks, praises his active and generous support of others in the contemporary arts community.
"An honorary degree from Massey University will recognise Filipe's outstanding record of achievement, his pursuit of deep cultural knowledge and his generous sharing of this knowledge with other Pacific peoples and the wider world."
*Massey University honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals of distinction who have made a significant contribution to the university, the nation or the public.
