Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Arts

what's on

Altered Egos (Polynesia) Artist Catalogue

ABOUT THE PROJECT
 - Ali Cowley

Talofa and warm Pasifika greetings,

Aside from my day job as an Art Tutor at Media Design School I am currently working on Producing an Artist Catalogue Book based on a Pop Culture Art Exhibition at Mangere Arts Centre during 2016, as part of the Urbanesia Festival. The Exhibition named ‘Altered Egos’ was a unique look into the Pop Culture phenomenon that is very common with our Pasifika Community through movies, games, e-learning, graphic novels and comic books. What also makes it so special, is that the some of the exhibitors are from the Mangere Community, including myself, with the exception of two Artists, one living in North Shore (originally from Glenn Innes) and the second from West Auckland that has now moved to South Auckland.

The artists to be included in the catalogue are as follows, and in no particular order;
Michel Mulipolo – Comic book Artist
Nanai Tolovae Jr – 3D Technical Artist
Jimmy Vea – Graphic Designer
Te Iwihoko Te Rangihirawea - Graphic Designer
Ali Cowley – Animator/Illustrator

The project has come from an ongoing conversation with people in my Pasifika community who did not manage to see the exhibition, but would value having something that showcases what it was all about, and enables the exhibition to live on and be shared. I also feel it is important to raise awareness of these specialty art forms, because they are very relevant to the changing face of this technological world, and a very viable career choice. This book can serve as a conversation starter for any teacher mentoring an upcoming artist who doesn't know where to start. I see it as a resource on any school career advisors desks, or in libraries, available from career expos, artist groups and art galleries to name a few.

UP2
I am currently talking with a writer to work out the interviewing style that we will approach each artist, to give their reflections on their involvement with the Altered Egos Exhibition and what they are doing now in their creative worlds. 

I can tell you that the book will be to our aesthetic so get ready for Altered Ego Stylin!

Ali Cowley

AE X.jpg