Sponsored: Showcasing voices of the community
Christchurch artist Dr John Vea highlights Pacific migrant workers’ experiences in the upcoming exhibition Seasonal Agreement.
The Refinery ArtSpace is a gallery that thrives on connection, experimentation, and inclusion. For gallery manager Janja Heathfield, the vision is clear: art belongs to everyone. “We’re here to support community expression in all its forms. It might be an established artist, or it could be a local group experimenting with ideas. Both have a place.”
Managed by Arts Council Nelson, the gallery embraces innovation alongside tradition. “That’s the joy of it,” Janja explains. “It’s a vibrant and inclusive hub for creativity, where artistic practices are celebrated and communities are connected through shared experiences.”
The upcoming exhibition Seasonal Agreement by Ōtautahi Christchurch-based artist Dr John Vea is an example of how art connects communities. John, of Tongan descent, sheds light on the experiences of Pacific migrant workers in Te Tauihu. With characteristic humour, his work highlights the bureaucratic hurdles, cultural adjustments, and emotional toll of working in Aotearoa on a seasonal basis while creating a sense of belonging and caring for families left at home. It’s art that entertains but also challenges, encouraging viewers to consider complex issues from a new perspective.
Seasonal Agreement is part of a long-standing partnership between the Refinery ArtSpace and Nelson Arts Festival. Curated by Nelson Arts Festival, and hosted by Refinery ArtSpace, this collaboration brings vibrant and innovative art to Nelson every year, as part of the festival schedule. Janja says this is exactly the kind of work the Refinery is proud to champion. “Art is where we can engage with different viewpoints, sometimes even political ones, in a way that helps us understand and reflect. John’s exhibition is important; a Pasifika voice conveying the reality of migrant workers, while remaining accessible, playful, and thought-provoking. It’s something both adults and kids can connect with.”
For John, the exhibition carries a deep personal resonance. “The artworks are very conceptual and reflect the experiences of the Pacific people when trying to adapt to unfamiliar lands. My parents moved to Aotearoa to find work and build a better life for the family and those back home in Tonga. My practice acknowledges life here in Aotearoa, especially in smaller provinces like Whakatū. The artworks are an acknowledgement to our parents – and I say ‘our’ as it's a common narrative for people to leave their family in search of opportunity. I hope my work encourages my generation, and future generations, to always acknowledge those who came before them and made the choice to start anew. This exhibition is a milestone for me, and I hope it sparks conversations – especially for those outside the Pacific culture. The work adds layers and invites dialogue.”
Seasonal Agreement by Dr John Vea runs from October 23 to November 15 at Refinery ArtSpace. This free exhibition is presented by Nelson Arts Festival, in collaboration with Refinery ArtSpace and with support from Nelson Airport.