Fiji’s creative industry is vibrant yet continuously evolving, posing challenges for those looking for instant success. Emerging artist and poet Atueta Rabuka embodies this reality as he transitions from a media personality to a full-time artist, pursuing a dream that began at the age of 17.
Originating from Kuku Village in Tailevu, with familial ties to Rewa, Rabuka’s childhood was filled with a passion for drawing. His early artistic inclinations led him to deface his father’s Bible and encyclopaedias, prompting his parents to provide him with chalk to explore his creativity on the walls.
Rabuka emphasizes that his artistic skills are the result of persistent practice rather than mere talent. Drawing a parallel to rugby, he acknowledges that while anyone can play, true professionals dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the craft. Influenced by his brother’s tapa designs and his cousin Mesu’s meticulous reproductions, Rabuka consciously chose to carve his own path outside traditional career options. Instead of pursuing university, he attended the Fiji Institute of Technology, now part of FNU, where he gained formal training in various artistic mediums such as charcoal and oil painting from international instructors.
After facing setbacks in his life, the mishandling of fees led him into the media industry, spending over a decade at Communications Fiji Limited, Fiji TV, and FBC. Despite the rewarding experiences, Rabuka found that this work impeded his true artistic expression. In 2018, he made the bold decision to resign and fully embrace his artistic journey, participating in poetry slams as a platform for creative development.
Currently, Rabuka advocates for the recognition of art as a significant economic contributor. He is pushing for a departure from colonial mindsets that deem art as “useless,” calling for structured support akin to that provided in agriculture, which would include education, investment, and robust copyright enforcement to safeguard originality in a landscape plagued by imitation.
Regarding artificial intelligence, Rabuka sees promise in its potential to aid artists in refining their work and generating new ideas. However, he cautions that if society undervalues human creativity, it might lead to a diminishment of original artistic expression. He believes that responsibly harnessed, AI can serve as a valuable ally for artists, but misuse could jeopardize the integrity of their work.
Rabuka’s journey is a testament to the viability of a career in the arts, underlined by unwavering commitment. He recognizes that while tertiary institutions may be slow to prioritize the arts and humanities, early engagement from preschool education is essential for changing perceptions and expanding career opportunities in design, film, and beyond. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, highlighting the importance of perseverance and innovation in the creative sector.
Leave a comment