Katerina Teaiwa: Project Banaba -The untold mining history of Banaba Ocean Island
Project Banaba by Banaban scholar and artist Katerina Teaiwa is a traveling multimedia installation that commemorates the history of Banaba, also known as Ocean Island in the Moana Pacific. Banaba Island was destroyed by environmentally devastating phosphate mining during the 20th century, leading to the total relocation of its people in 1945, with the 76th anniversary of their displacement being marked recently on 15 December 2021.
“Agriculture is not is our blood, but our blood is in agriculture.”
Project Banaba explores the untold New Zealand phosphate mining history in Banaba Island; and the resilience of the Banaban community in the face of social and political adversity. Alongside Project Banaba, Te Uru presents the special project, Te Kaneati – a community-led exhibition that highlights the experience of Auckland's thriving Banaban community.
It is a deeply heart-breaking and compelling journey that has been soulfully captured by Teaiwa. This exhibition is something that all Pasifika must see, feel and learn from.
Listen to Katarina talk about Project Banaba here.
Project Banaba and Te Kaneati are co-curated by Te Uru, Auckland Banaban Christian Fellowship Support Hub and Yuki Kihara in close consultation with Katerina Teaiwa. Te Kaneati is supported by CNZ and Corbans Pacifika Arts Center.
For a photo essay on the Banaban diaspora click here.
To read an incredible conversation between Katerina Teaiwa and Michael Fitzgerald click here.
The exhibition runs from 5 March – 29 May 2022
Te Uru: Waitakere Contemporary Gallery
420 Titirangi Road
Titirangi
Auckland