The NAWITA association was formed in 1987, a few years after the independence. It gathers artists of Vanuatu who have decided to develop their own styles, diferentiating themselves from the strict custom artists. Through frequent meetings and discussions in nakamals, the artists decided to set up a movement of contemporary art in Vanuatu. Under the leadership of Emmanuel Watt as its president, the NAWITA association was officially created. 1989 marks the beginning of a series of exhibitions by young vanuatu who finally have the opportunity to be able to exhibit their works. Sculptures, paintings, potteries and tapestries make their entrance in the Vanuatu art scene.


The artists
Among the painters, Matthew Abbock, David Ambong, Mickael Busaï, Mistletoe Deroin, Joseph John, who participated in exhibitions in Australia. Sero Kuautonga, the president of the association, displayed as well in New Zealand, Switzerland or France. Nikiyatu Kuantonga was able to perfect its technique thanks to exchanges with Indonesia, whereas Emmanuel Watt, exhibited in numerous international exchanges with France, China, Australia and New Caledonia. Juliette Pita, recognized to be the first artist ni Vanuatu to master the tapestry, participated in exhibitions almost everywhere in the world, in particular in Switzerland, Australia and England.