One of eight fence panels that makes up 'the street loves nana'. This original design is painted by Benjamin Work and is one of two pieces he created for her.

The sewing has been completed by a cast of many - sometimes over coffee and crumpets - captured here is its growth stitch by stitch.

Here's what Ben says about his Nana - Litea.

FOR LITEA

What do I remember most about my grandma?

She would often have a laugh when I was trying to pronounce Tongan words (as she spoke very little English)

- Her favourite was my wrong pronunciation of the word 'sio ki he' which I would say 'silky hair'.

- She would cook on a open fire, and sleep using a traditional wooden pillow on the floor.

- She never missed a Sunday church service, dressed up with her best Taovala (waist mat).

'the street loves nana' is an original idea conceived by designer Margaret Lewis to be a collaborative project between herself, NZ street artists and anyone wanting to give handcraft a go.

SPRAYED BY BENJAMIN WORK

Benjamin Work is a South Auckland-based visual artist of Tongan and Scottish heritage.

With a strong foundation in aerosol painting and grati, Work is a core member of the international art collective, TMD.

He has worked on diverse projects including large-scale public mural commissions, limited edition wine boxes and postage stamps. Recently, his practice has also expanded to photography and performance.

Work has exhibited in Tijuana, Miami, Sydney and Tonga where he travels frequently.

Work is also an active member of the Auckland-based Tongan art collective, No’o Fakataha, in which he maintains a strong interest in Ngatu (Tongan bark cloth) making, design and motifs. Work explores kula (red) and `uli (black), colours which have been used in Tongan thinking and practice, like the Pacific/Moana cultural concepts and practices, for centuries.

Technical Information: 

Fence mesh - framed by pallet timber - handsewn with wool.