All the items in this collection express how relationships and familial connections are nurtured through the practice of making and the sharing of Cook Islands’ knowledge and skills with regards to cultural objects, music and materiality. Crafting within Cook Islands also represents an income generating practice among creative and cultural communities, specifically with the aspect of contemporary tourist art from these regions as expressions of national cultural identity. This collection also supports the research into expressions of identity through the creative process.

This Annie Bonza dress, pona va‘ine (dress), is an example of Cook Islands material culture with a strong emphasis on fashion and textiles. The dress was designed by New Zealand born fashion designer who later in life moved to the Cook Islands and continued her clothing line from there. Annie Bonza was inspired by Cook Islands’ patterns and colours.