Teine Sāmoa

In this artwork I celebrate Samoan women and the beauty of her sacred 
malu. Her pose echoes the iconic The Birth of Venus by Sandro 
Botticelli, drawing dialogue between Renaissance ideals of feminine 
beauty and the cultural identity of Samoan womanhood. The intricate motifs of the malu, extending from above her knees to her upper thighs, are unique to her identity. Meaning “to protect,” the malu embodies the enduring responsibilities of Samoan women as protectors, nurturers, and custodians of their ‘aiga (family). Teine Sāmoa is a visual connection of past and present affirming the strength and continuity of traditional Samoan cultural values.