I’m Holly, Aotearoa born-and-raised Samoan-palagi. Just like my whakapapa, my creative experience is a blend of differences, like a mixtape or a potluck dinner.

I graduated from the University of Auckland in association with Manukau Institute of Technology in 2007 with a Bachelor of Visual Arts, majoring in Photography. While studying I received two awards for participation in the Manukau Youth Art Awards at Te Tuhi Gallery.

In 2008 I relocated to Melbourne where I lived and exhibited my photography for three years before returning to Aotearoa in time for my solo photo-sculpture exhibition This Room, The Sum of My Memories (of you) at Snake Pit in November 2011, curated by Arron Santry (Artspace).

In the summer of 2012/2013 I collaborated with Zainab Hikmet (NZ/AU) for a video installation in Corner Window Space titled I Dance, I Ripple, I am Thrown Over You Like A Net Of Light. This project was curated by Zoe Black (Object Space).

Combining my two loves – music and photography – I shot live gigs around Auckland between 2014 and 2016 for now-defunct gig guides and made illustrations and zines as I love the DIY low-fi ethos.

I came to graphic design unconventionally in 2017, learning on the go while assisting designers Emma Rogan and Kirsty Harvey. I have since developed long standing working relationships with Auckland CoDesign Lab. The Lab works in partnership with The Southern & Western Initiative alongside whānau, ‘aiga, mana whenua, mataawaka, businesses, government, community to foster the conditions for social equity and intergenerational wellbeing. Their mission resonates deeply with my values, my experiences as a South Auckland kid and I believe their work is incredibly valuable to our city.

In 2022 I joined Hula as a designer, and in 2023 we received two Best Award Gold Pins for our One Onboarding Experience project.

As of 2025, I continue to freelance.
I Live in Ōrakei, with my dog – Boone.