Australian and Samoan artists, musicians and communities came together from 21 July to 1 August for Breath of Country, Breath of Ocean, a cultural exchange presented by the Australian High Commission in Samoa and Tiapapata Art Centre as part of Australia now: Pacific edition.

Internationally acclaimed First Nations musician William Barton, respected Elder and storyteller Aunty Delmae Barton, and Samoan-Australian musician Isaiah B. Brunt joined communities across Samoa for workshops, cultural visits, performances and creative collaborations.

During the program, the artists participated in a traditional ‘ava ceremony, visited the Poutasi community, explored significant cultural heritage sites, and collaborated with members of the National Orchestra of Samoa. A standout feature of the exchange was the fusion of the two nations’ iconic wind instruments, Australia’s didgeridoo and Samoa’s fagufagu. This collaboration was showcased throughout the program, including at the public concert, radio appearances and community events.

The program concluded with a public concert at the Samoa Arts Centre, featuring performances by the Australian artists alongside Samoan musicians. The concert celebrated the deep connections between Australia’s First Nations peoples and the people of Samoa through music, storytelling and cultural exchange.

Breath of Country, Breath of Ocean strengthened people-to-people links, fostered new artistic partnerships and highlighted the enduring connections between Australia and Samoa grounded in shared respect for culture, community, land and ocean.

Watch the reel