'Aikona - A Solo Art Show by Amelia Niumeitolu

The Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM) is pleased to announce the opening of ‘Aikona featuring the works of Tongan-born artist 'Amelia Niumeitolu. ’Aikona unveils the hidden treasures of Tonga; its democracy and movement of the people. These dramatic portrayals of the human experience are captured in a nostalgic display of photography and film rendered upon the artist’s return home. The art show opens to the public Saturday, February 2, 2013 through Sunday, June 2, 2013. “Their stories are our urban stories of tradition, poverty, resilience, and hope. They want what we want: the best for ourselves, our children, our families, and our community” says Niumeitolu. The Kingdom of Tonga is a sovereign country and an archipelago comprising 176 islands scattered over 270,000 square miles. Niumeitolu’s experience in film and media transcends social and political issues. She has collaborated on the following films: Matters of Race; Rising Waters: Global Warming and the Fate of the Pacific Islands; Have you heard of Johannesburg; ’Auhia Kae Kisu Atu Pe: The Journey Against the Tides; Kuo Hina ‘e Hiapo: The Mulberry is White and Ready to Harvest; Kau Faito’o: Traditional Healers of Tonga; and Le Afi Ua Mu: The Fire is Burning. She holds a BA in Cinema, Television and Arts from California State University, Northridge. She and her husband Ti Tavai currently reside in Long Beach, California.