2020

Shawnee was invited to exhibit her work in Tautai’s group exhibition Saltwater/Interconnectivity, where she further explored the influence of advertising and media on society.

 

This series featured paintings with interactive QR codes, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on multiple levels. The exhibition included two paintings - a vintage television and an iPhone - positioned side by side. When activated, the animations contrasted historical and current narratives of oppression in New Zealand and the United States. The television displayed actual old footage of racist animations that aired on TVs in New Zealand, reflecting sentiments about kicking our Pasifika community out of the country. In contrast, the iPhone featured a recent Fox News clip disparaging the Black community shortly after George Floyd's murder. Through this series, Shawnee highlighted the persistent issues of racism and bigotry, revealing how media narratives continue to shape perceptions. The psychedelic imagery underscored the theme of control by the media, inviting viewers to reflect on their influences.

 

This exhibition marked a significant evolution in Shawnee's artistic journey, blending historical context with contemporary issues.