Gregory Semu

Gregory Semu

Quick facts

  • Emotional tone: comforting
  • Gift suitability: anniversary
  • Top-ranked work: Peni Family, Fairfield West
  • Typical colors: earthy
  • Art period: Contemporary
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Vibe: nostalgic
  • Mediums:
    • photography
    • black and white photography

biography of a new zealand photographic artist

gregory semu, a new zealand-born photographic artist of samoan descent, has been making waves in the art world since his birth in auckland in 1971. this visionary artist's work often delves into themes of pacific history, diaspora, and the complex issues of colonization, particularly the introduction of christian religion to the pacific island region.

early career and notable exhibitions

in 1995, semu's exhibition o le tatau samona / the tatoo arts of samoa marked a significant milestone as the first solo exhibition by a samoan heritage photographer at the auckland art gallery. this groundbreaking event not only showcased semu's artistic prowess but also highlighted his dedication to exploring the intricacies of pacific culture.

artistic themes and style

semu's photographic works are characterized by their thought-provoking narratives, which often navigate the complexities of colonialism, cultural identity, and the diasporic experience. his use of photography as a medium enables him to capture the essence of these themes with unflinching honesty, making his art both poignant and impactful.

current endeavors

currently based in sydney, australia, semu continues to push the boundaries of photographic art, inspiring new generations of artists and audiences alike. his influence can be seen in various aspects of the art world, from the city art gallery auckland, which showcases an impressive collection of local and international artworks, to the christchurchartgallery te puna o waiwhetu, which features a diverse collection of works from both local and international artists. experience the profound impact of gregory semu's art, which not only reflects his samoan heritage but also delves into the broader context of pacific history and its ongoing legacies.
By the ArtsDot.com Editorial Team

Quick quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What is Greg Semu’s nationality?
Question 2:
In what year did Semu hold his first solo exhibition at Auckland Art Gallery?
Question 3:
What is a prominent theme explored in Semu’s photographic works?
Question 4:
Where is Greg Semu currently based?
Question 5:
Which institution showcased Semu’s work as part of “Oceania Rising: Wayfinders”?

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Browse by theme

Peni Family, Fairfield West — Gregory Semu
aussie aiga series
Congregation Of The St Marys Assembly Of God Church, Oxley Park — Gregory Semu
christianity in pacific islands
Barton-vaofanua Family, Petersham — Gregory Semu
christianity introduction
Tupu Family, Petersham — Gregory Semu
colonialism and christian religion
Fiaalii Family, Mt Druitt — Gregory Semu
colonialism and cultural identity
Tanoi Family, Rockdale — Gregory Semu
colonialism and diaspora themes
Tuipala Family, Campbelltown — Gregory Semu
colonialism and identity
Peni Family, Fairfield West — Gregory Semu
colonialism and religion
Ah Chong Family, St Marys — Gregory Semu
colonialism impact
Schuster Family, Colyton — Gregory Semu
colonization
Barton-vaofanua Family, Petersham — Gregory Semu
colonization issues
Peni Family, Fairfield West — Gregory Semu
community cultural development

Most loved works

Peni Family, Fairfield West — Gregory Semu
Peni Family, Fairfield West, Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $300
Congregation Of The St Marys Assembly Of God Church, Oxley Park — Gregory Semu
Congregation of the St Marys Assembly of God Church, Oxley Park – art print by Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Schuster Family, Colyton — Gregory Semu
Schuster Family, Colyton – art print by Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Ah Chong Family, St Marys — Gregory Semu
Ah Chong Family, St Marys, Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Maiava Family, Belmore — Gregory Semu
Gregory Semu: Maiava Family, Belmore
Get it painted in oil from $175
Luatua Family, St Marys — Gregory Semu
Luatua Family, St Marys
Get it painted in oil from $175
Tanoi Family, Rockdale — Gregory Semu
Tanoi Family, Rockdale by Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Tuipala Family, Campbelltown — Gregory Semu
Tuipala Family, Campbelltown, Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Leaupepe Family, Campbelltown — Gregory Semu
Gregory Semu: Leaupepe Family, Campbelltown
Get it painted in oil from $175
Fiaalii Family, Mt Druitt — Gregory Semu
Fiaalii Family, Mt Druitt – art print by Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175
Barton-vaofanua Family, Petersham — Gregory Semu
Barton-Vaofanua Family, Petersham – art print
Get it painted in oil from $175
Tupu Family, Petersham — Gregory Semu
Tupu Family, Petersham, Gregory Semu
Get it painted in oil from $175

Questions & Answers

What occasions are Gregory Semu's works good for?

cultural

What is the top-ranked painting by Gregory Semu on ArtsDot.com?

Peni Family, Fairfield West

What color palette characterizes Gregory Semu's work?

earthy

What are other names Gregory Semu is known by?

Greg Semu

How many of Gregory Semu's paintings are on ArtsDot.com?

13

What is Greg Semu’s nationality?

New Zealand

Where is Gregory Semu from?

New Zealand

What is a prominent theme explored in Semu’s photographic works?

Pacific History and Diaspora

What art period did Gregory Semu belong to?

Contemporary

When and where was Gregory Semu born?

1971, Auckland, New Zealand