Inspired by the iconography found on Tongan treasures such as ngatu (bark cloth), fala (Tongan mats), and 'akau tau (war clubs), his refined, graphic paintings aimed to find new spaces and ways for audiences to engage with Tonga's visual culture.
[2] Work's early life was marked by a diverse cultural upbringing, a passion for art, and a deep exploration of his Tongan heritage.
[4] This exploration has allowed him to incorporate elements of Tongan traditions and symbols into his artwork, creating a unique fusion of contemporary and cultural influences.
Work is part of the urban art movement and has exhibited in Australia, Mexico, New Zealand, United States, Cook Islands, and Tonga.
[10] In 2024, Work was awarded the inaugural Fatu Feu’u Pacific Arts Prize from University of Auckland[11]