Artists statement

'Holding On' is a performance piece which captures a struggle between the body of the artist and the body of the ocean as the tide gradually comes in. The artist lies on a concrete slab which stretches out into the ocean; a man-made island. Underestimating the ferocity and strength of the incoming waves, she struggles to maintain her grasp on the island. As the light fades into darkness, it is unknown whether she will be able to hold on or be swept away.

This video was filmed on Tuvalu, in the South Pacific at King Tide when the tide is at its highest. It is one of the most endangered nations currently facing the impacts of climate change, as each day the tide claims more of the island and submerges peoples’ homes in ocean water.

This hypnotising video provides a small view of a major issue concerning many people world-wide, and a metaphor for unyielding faith of those confronted by imminent disaster. As day turns to night and untamed waves sweep across the artist’s body she lays prostrate, arms outstretched, desperately holding on to the stone platform, to her island, to the hope of salvation. The waves wash across her body in an almost cleansing motion. Tiatia’s video speaks of the constant and unrelenting faith required of the people of Tuvalu, who confront a monumental challenge each day and struggle against it. As spoken by an elderly Tuvaluan woman, "God would never let our islands disappear", these words have remained as a lasting memory in Tiatia's mind.