In The Black Exhibition Opening

At a young age, Silivelio (Lio) Fasi was instantly drawn to the patterns that make up Samoan tatau. The black ink in the Pe'a (Samoan male tattoo that covers the back down to the knees) was what inspired Lio's style and flavour for his future works.

Silivelio (Lio) Fasi is a Christchurch-born and raised Pacific visual artist. He uses black markers and paint to create his art; a combination he has been using since high school.

The expression "In The Black" is a financial term that is used to describe a company that is profitable, and not over burdened by debt.

As Pacific people there are many negative stereotypes that are highlighted in statistics, the media and government reports.

"In The Black" is the title of his first exhibition, using contemporary Pacific art to celebrate the positive impacts of being Pacific and to describe the talented, creative Pasifika artists thriving in Aotearoa. This is also illustrated by his significant use of black in his work.

Lio is married to Sela Faletolu-Fasi and is a proud Dad to six beautiful kids; Favor, Victory, Princeton, Mercédès, Auteletoa, and Lapana. He is passionate about working with young people and is responsible for many community murals on the Eastside of Christchurch, where he grew up.