With a warm smile and an inviting greeting of “Cola Vina,” Alice Hill showcases her deep personal connection to Fiji and its people through her work. As the owner of Hot Glass Fiji, Alice is one of ten local artists participating in the “Alchemy” art exhibition held at Suva’s Grand Pacific Hotel, which opened Thursday and runs until tomorrow.
The “Alchemy” exhibition aims to celebrate the beauty of raw materials and their transformation into remarkable art pieces. Alice gathered a talented group of artists to explore mediums such as ink, clay, glass, sand, metal, and wood, demonstrating the creative potential of these elements.
Based in Sigatoka, Alice’s glass creations are uniquely inspired by Fiji’s underwater flora and fauna. Her pieces reflect the beauty of the ocean, incorporating her passion for scuba diving and the vibrant marine environment. She highlights her “Emperor” and “Tang” pieces, noting their intricate designs that showcase her skilled glassblowing techniques.
Having lived in Fiji for 22 years, Alice originally hails from the United Kingdom. She trained as a glassblower for seven years in London before relocating to Fiji, where she and her husband initially established a scuba diving business. It was after a decade that she pivoted to glass art, aiming to bring something unique to the local artistic landscape.
Alice emphasizes the patience and dedication required to master glassblowing. While she can create pieces relatively quickly now, her expertise is built on years of practice and skill development. She encourages newcomers to embrace the challenges, as the journey into glass art can be magical and fulfilling.
Inspiration plays a vital role in Alice’s artwork, which draws heavily from Fijian nature, culture, and heritage. She hopes her pieces foster a connection for viewers to their culture and land, encouraging unique interpretations of her art.
The “Alchemy” exhibition serves not only to showcase stunning artworks but also to provide a platform for local Indigenous artists. Alice aspires for greater recognition of Fiji’s artistic talent, emphasizing the diverse inspirations that underlie each artist’s work.
This exhibition is a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage and artistic potential present in Fiji. The works on display offer a glimpse into the beauty of the islands, encouraging audiences to appreciate and celebrate local craftsmanship. By fostering understanding and appreciation of these unique artistic expressions, exhibitions like “Alchemy” can strengthen community ties and promote greater recognition of local talents.
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