A Practice-Led Inquiry Led by an Oceanic Artistic Research Paradigm

Abstract

This presentation explores a practice led PhD project that investigates the role of Oceanic values and ways of knowing and being to inform faiva (creative practice / performance), which aims to engage, create mafana (warmth) and malie (harmony) to make manifest ‘asi (the presence of the unseen) in the artistic expression of Oceanic youth. In 1993, Wolfgramm identified ‘asi as a crucial element in the climax of faiva, reflecting a spirit that energises and gives agency to artistic work. This research examines what occurs when young Oceanic individuals collaborate creatively, using cultural heritage values to create meaningful faiva, and how this process of collaboration may activate ‘asi both before and after the peak of performance. The study is underpinned by two key bodies of work. The first, a co-created project named Lila, involved a team of research participants who combined their talents to develop and present a contemporary faiva in 2019. This case study is complemented by interviews with contemporary Oceanic youth leaders, who offer insights into the phenomenon of ‘asi and its role in artistic practice. The second body of work, FAIVA | FAI VĀ, represents the researcher’s personal synthesis and reflection on ‘asi. This contemporary faiva integrates spoken word poetry, sound, drawing, video design, and performance to explore autobiographical themes and poetic expressions. By interweaving these elements, the researcher reflects on the nature and agency of ‘asi within the creative process. Through these works, the research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of ‘asi and its potential to resource creativity and foster a sense of belonging in the development and performance of contemporary faiva among Oceanic youth.