Filipe Tohi

Pacific artist Filipe Tohi's work is dedicated to exploring the visual possibilities in pattern while remaining true to a basic Tongan construct. The Pacific art of sennit lashing, lalava in Tongan, informs his experience of art and he has created an entire philosophical method based upon it. In Lalavaometry, Tohi presents various explorations in symmetry, contour, balance, form and composition that project the power and potential he sees in lalava. He believes that artistic pattern is key to deciphering the visual history of the Pacific, but also is an intrinsic part of the future as seen in computer chips, screens and components. When he explores and creates tangible objects Tohi is simultaneously furthering the understanding of Pacific cultures by questioning and pushing the limits of our comprehension. I don't think it is coincidence that in my thesaurus the word lash has these synonyms: push, arouse, propel, instigate, incite, prompt, agitate, excite, enflame, kindle, provoke, encourage, secure, join and connect. Lalava provides a foundation but it is Tohi who establishes the boundaries. (H.S.)