Katerina Teaiwa’s ongoing project, *Project Banaba*, continues to play a pivotal role in her artistic exploration and cultural advocacy. Focusing on the painful legacy of phosphate mining and displacement experienced on Banaba Island in Kiribati, this research-creation initiative intertwines archival work with creative narratives, aiming to shed light on the enduring impact on the Banaban diaspora. Viewed as a vibrant multimedia exhibition, *Project Banaba* has received global attention, fostering dialogue about historical injustices and cultural resilience.
In the past year, Teaiwa’s artistic endeavors have expanded beyond Banaba, including a striking video installation in regional Victoria and a significant presence in museum exhibitions in Sydney. Recently featured in *Storytelling Liberation*, an exhibition at La Trobe Art Institute, her collaborative work with Dr. Alex Martinis Roe combines themes of memory and political activism through compelling visual storytelling developed during her tenure as the inaugural Stewart Black Drawing Fellow.
Teaiwa’s curatorial efforts for the *Wansolmoana* exhibition at the Australian Museum in Sydney have redefined how Pacific histories are represented in institutional spaces. As part of a dedicated team, she has focused on integrating Banaban history into the “Disruptions” section of the new Pacific gallery, ensuring critical narratives are highlighted and honored through thoughtful exhibition design.
Looking ahead, Teaiwa’s next major focus is the *Dance Protest* exhibition at the Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney, which will be open until January 2026. This exhibition will continue her exploration of women’s activism and cultural expression—an essential thread throughout her body of work.
Additionally, in October, Teaiwa will gather Aboriginal and Pacific scholars, artists, and activists as part of her ARC Indigenous Discovery grant. This gathering promises to foster rich intellectual and creative collaboration across Indigenous and Oceanic communities, exemplifying her commitment to visibility and cultural empowerment. Her leadership is further amplified through a partnership with the Oceania Working Party of the *Australian Dictionary of Biography*, which seeks to enhance Pasifika representation in various cultural sectors.
Teaiwa is also set to participate in launching the newly designed Oceania Gallery at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, narrating the stories behind 29 objects from diverse Pacific regions. This event will celebrate the gallery’s new audio guide and invite communities to engage with the rich cultural artifacts housed at The Met.
Katerina Teaiwa’s commitment to bringing Pacific stories to the forefront of cultural discussions emphasizes the need for historical recognition and the honoring of diverse narratives. Her tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring future generations to connect with their heritage through art and storytelling.
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