SUP'IA SUGA

Sup’ia Suga (2023), created for the Sydney Biennale, represents a modern-day, girl power superhero. With her beaded cape in pink, yellow and green, adorned with elements from the moana (ocean), she radiates strength and positivity. Inspired by an earlier aitu (ancestral being) from Tāmaki Paenga Hira/Museum of Auckland, Sup’ia Suga encourages us to embrace pono (honesty), manaakitanga (kindness) and ataahuatanga (fabulousness). She embodies courage, confidence, and colour – a blend of Wonder Woman and Superman – dedicated to inspiring humanity for a brighter future.

This work reflects the Pacific Sisters’ idea of “kaupapa-driven frocks,” where the mana (power) in clothing – rooted in one’s origins, beliefs and values – is central to Māori and Pacific dress practices. By blending a superhero costume with traditional techniques, Sup’ia Suga asserts ownership of cultural heritage while symbolising a hybrid, evolving identity.