Sāmaria

Sāmaria is a new artist publication by photographer Ma'alo Lafo. It is a bold series of photographs by Lafo, guided by his maluāpapa. The title Sāmaria pays homage to his parents; each image alludes to a larger genesis. The series of photographs moves between intimate interiors and portraits of friends and the surrounding community in Ōtara. Glimmers of gold and religious iconography rapidly transform material possessions.

Sāmaria was designed by Warren Olds and presented as part of the exhibition Dalosa, Lafo & Iva, 2025. The series was developed through the mentorship of Edith Amituanai through the Vuli Tara mentorship programme with Moana Fresh and the Papatūnga artist development programme at Te Tuhi.