Explore complex cultural exchanges between Europe and the South Pacific across four gallery spaces. Central to the exhibition is Joshua Reynolds’ Portrait of Mai, widely considered to be his finest work and a striking image of the first Polynesian visitor to Britain during the 1770s.

Historic paintings, prints and objects reveal early European encounters while Lisa Reihana’s In Pursuit of Venus (infected) offers a contemporary reimagining that challenges colonial narratives. Devon-based artist Mohini Chandra responds to Plymouth’s maritime history with a new commission and Tahitian artist Hinatea Colombani creates a new soundscape, while archival materials shed light on Mai’s time in the city, creating a rich, immersive journey through time.

Visitors are advised to book a free ticket in advance.

Journeys with Mai is a national partnership project led by the National Portrait Gallery, Bradford District Museums and Galleries, the Fitzwilliam Museum, in collaboration with the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge and The Box, Plymouth. The project is generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Art Fund and other supporters.