Taniela Petelo is a visual artist and musician, born and raised in Haveluloto, Tongatapu, Tonga.

In 2009, Taniela began training in fine arts under Tevita Latu, a former art teacher at the Atenisi Institute and Tonga International Academy. Along with Tevita, Taniela is the proud co-founder of Seleka, an artist-run hub for young Tongan artists. Tevita continues to be a mentor and guide not only to Taniela, but to all the young Selekarians.

Working across forms, Taniela's practice is constantly evolving both technically and conceptually in drawing, painting and sculpture. His two-dimensional work explores and innovative use of mixed media including pencil, paint, charcoal and locally sourced clay. His signature style involves a playful use of collage where layers of newspaper form the foundation for his drawings.

Taniela has been regularly exhibiting in Tonga since 2010. His local popularity has resulted in international interest with his work being exhibited at Shapiro Actioneers and Gallery Maketi Ples, Sydney, Australia. In 2016, Taniela was invited to participate in New Zealand's Waikato University's artist-in-residence program, which culminated in a group exhibition, Putahi, celebrating the divesity of Polynesian artists.

Taniela was granted funding by the Burrows family in 2013, being nominated by Sulieti Burrows and Tui Emma Gillies. Such generous financial support from others, assist the artist in maintaining supplies and continuing to make art. In 2014, Taniela embarked on a study scholarship to the Australia Pacific Technical College (APTC), Suva, Fiji, completing a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating. This experience has assisted the artist in further developing his artmaking skills.

The artist is regularly commissioned by international collectors, with his artworks being held in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. As an extension to his practice, Taniela is also an illustrator whose work can also be seen in several children's books.