The Wolfman (2010) Etching by Rusiate Lali

The Wolf holds the chalice and centre stage and commands the water spirits to take care of all creatures, to value resources and take pride in our heritage.

In this work, we see the flying box, which is Rusiate’s way of portraying information, perhaps not easily seen. This work was done during one of his stays in Australia, and you can see the kangaroo looking up at the chalice held by the Wolf.

Born into two worlds, trying to adapt and seeking acceptance in both but falling short as the ancestors watch him stumble, fall and getting up to try again.

Putting on a facade and masquerading as another to impress modernisation, not really knowing whether to go left or right. This is the dilemma of the modern iTaukei.

Rusiate’s father's name is "Matai Tinai" which in English translates into "Ten Eyes". As one of Rusi’s trademarks he will usually portray eyes in his artwork. We see the flying boxes, which is Rusiate’s way of portraying information, perhaps not easily seen.

Image Size: 21 x 58.5 cm
Paper size: 76.5 x 40.5 cm
Medium: Etching Limited Edition: 30

Printer: Northern Editions, NTU, Darwin Date: 2010