Norbert Ikutete Kokauani

I describe myself as an indigenous artist of the Marquesas Islands. I am from Vaitahu, Tahuata, Fenua Enata (Marquesas), French Polynesia. I recently (last few years) came to live in California with my wife. Now I have two homes. In the Marquesas, I am a local fisherman that uses sustainable practices, an artist, and a jack-of-all-trades. I create traditional and modern pieces. I like to carve in stone, shell, bone, antler and wood. I am only limited by my available materials and tools. I strive to create unique, one of a kind pieces that reflect the traditional meanings and motifs of my culture.

I grew up exposed to the art forms of the Marquesas. I learned some arts and crafts from family members, and then I learned how to carve through practice. Knowledge of the traditional designs that I carve came from traditional learning and living in the Marquesas.
I have also been a fisherman my entire life.