Josaia McNamara, a 50-year-old artist from the iTaukei community of Matuku in Lau, has cultivated a profound connection to art since childhood. Growing up in Tamavua, his formative years alongside his maternal grandparents were characterized by hard work and a strong bond to the land, as his family farmed and his mother thrived in a handicraft business.
Despite not having a father figure, McNamara’s mother played a crucial role in his upbringing, ensuring he had a nurturing environment. From a young age, he displayed an affinity for art, experimenting with charcoal and pencils, and drawing on any available surface. However, his journey into professional artistry was not straightforward.
After completing his primary and secondary education in Lautoka, McNamara moved back to Suva at 18 to further his studies at the University of the South Pacific. It was during this period that his passion for art began to flourish. He took advantage of workshops hosted by international artists, laying the groundwork for his future. His initial attempts to connect with the Fiji Arts Council were sporadic but ultimately led to valuable networking opportunities that shaped his artistic career.
Although the National Fine Arts Exhibition was limited at the time, it provided a vital platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and grow within the art community. For McNamara, art transcends mere career ambitions; he views it as a spiritual journey, one that encourages deep self-reflection and personal growth.
Despite the challenges he faced, McNamara remained dedicated to his art, diligently working through the demands of his profession. He envisions the Fiji Arts Council as continually evolving and believes it can amplify the success of local artists. He encourages aspiring artists to be patient, cultivate their unique talents, and maintain self-belief. His mantra is that things may seem impossible until they are accomplished.
This story epitomizes resilience and the power of artistic expression, inspiring upcoming generations to embrace their creative paths with confidence and diligence. Through his journey, McNamara reminds us all that the pursuit of art can lead to profound personal fulfillment and community connection.
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