Join us on First Thursday, May 1, to celebrate the opening of TAPA at ARTS at King Street Station with SINA: From Tonga to Seattle – Crafting a Legacy Through Tongan Arts and Entrepreneurship. This opening event is a tribute to Sina, the first Tongan pioneer artist and entrepreneur in Seattle, whose work has had a lasting impact on both her own life and the Tongan community.

Through her dedication, Sina not only inspired the Tongan art scene but also provided for the community, helping to lay the foundation for the flourishing cultural heritage that continues to thrive today. Join us at King Street Station to celebrate her legacy and experience an evening filled with cultural showcases, stories, and performances inspired by Sina’s journey. Expect an evening rich in culture, inspiration, and a deep connection to Sina’s pioneering spirit that continues to shape Tongan art and heritage in Seattle.

ARTS at King Street Station is open Wed. – Sat. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and until 8 p.m. on First Thursdays. Admission is free. The gallery is located at 303 S. Jackson St., Top Floor, Seattle, WA 98104.

TAPA

On view May 1 – June 21

TAPA showcases the fusion of traditional Tongan tribal patterns with contemporary digital art, transforming cultural symbols into modern décor. Tapa cloth is one of the highest value gifts. It is also used throughout the Pacific Islands with great appreciation. Each intricate pattern embodies ancestral wisdom, spiritual connections, and the resilience of Tongan artistry, inviting viewers to embrace cultural storytelling through immersive design.

Benedicta Kongaika is a Tongan American artist whose deep admiration for Tongan tribal art has shaped her creative journey. Growing up in America, she found herself drawn to the intricate patterns and cultural symbolism of Tongan designs, always seeking ways to incorporate their rich heritage into modern home decor.