Meet Telly Tuita, Sydney Festival’s Visual Artist in Residence at The Thirsty Mile. Immerse yourself in Tuita’s vibrant “Tongpop” aesthetic splashed across this year’s Festival precinct. Tuita draws on the maritime history of his ancestors and will frame the harbourside with extravagant totems, dancing divas and a rebirth of the SS John Oxley.

Born in Tonga, raised in Western Sydney and now based in Wellington, his work reflects his Pacific heritage and the bright lights of our city. Tuita promises to bring “healthy doses of kaleidoscopic chaos. So Sydney, right?”

Here’s where you can explore the time and space of Tongpop:  

SS John Oxley 

The jewel of our harbourside hub, the SS John Oxley is getting a makeover with Tuita’s signature textiles and patterns. The deification of vessels is an important aspect of the Tongpop practice – and Tuita will dress up the historic steamship for a glorious rebirth. 

Moonshine Bar  

Step inside the Moonshine Bar and meet six totems in Tuita’s iconic colours. In the foyer you’ll also be greeted by a hanging totem and digital screens with the dancing Tēvolo (ghosts). 

Our Flags & Festival ‘S’ 

Look out for other Tongpop flourishes along the Mile, from flags with Tēvolo Divas to a giant Sydney Festival ‘S’.  

Colour Maze 

And because more is more, Tuita has teamed up with public art experts Amigo & Amigo for Colour Maze, an art wonderland for the whole family.


An audio described and tactile tour run by Emma Bedford will take place on Saturday 11 January at 1:30pm. To book, please contact 02 8248 6500 or email access[at]sydneyfestival.org.au