HANDMADE IN THE PACIFIC

4x30’ for BBC4 and International Distribution

2018

Series Producer and Director

This observational documentary series gives viewers a rare and intimate insight into the creative processes and cultural significance of traditional artefacts in Australia, Rurutu, New Zealand and Hawaii. I developed, managed, and directed and took through the edit. I spent 2 months shooting this series across the Pacific.

EP 1: In Arnhem Land, Northern Australia, a family works to create a 'yidaki' - an ancient and sacred Aboriginal instrument also known as a didgeridoo.

EP 2: One of the last traditional weavers on the Polynesian island of Rurutu creates a ceremonial 'taupoo', a hat made from pandanus leaves.

EP 3: For artist Dalani Tanahy, the painstaking process of creating 'kapa' - cloth made from tree bark - symbolises the resurgence of indigenous Hawaiian pride and identity.

EP 4: With chainsaws, adzes, and over 30 different chisels, Maori carver Logan Okiwi Shipgood crafts a 6ft tall 'pou' statue from native New Zealand timber.