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.