Artist and social activist Tracy Tawhiao shares the story behind her exhibition Testimony, which boldly reflects on the social and psychological fallout from New Zealand’s COVID-19 response. Tracy discusses the exclusion faced by unvaccinated individuals, including her own experience being barred from entering an art gallery she curated due to vaccine mandates. Through her art, she challenges the fear-driven narratives of the pandemic and calls for honest conversations, informed consent, and collective healing. With warmth and fierce conviction, she highlights the importance of creativity, Māori heritage, and standing firm in one's truth—even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular. Testimony is not only a showcase of resistance, but an invitation to reflect, remember, and reclaim connection in a fractured world.

Testimony is on from 2–14 April @tawhiaoartsalon, 559 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland