Mere Rasue, a 34-year-old artist from Ra with roots in Somosomo Village, has faced numerous challenges on her journey to discover her artistic talent. Raised in Lautoka by parents who worked as a magistrate and school teacher, Mere chose to marry young and start a family instead of pursuing higher education.
Life’s difficulties prompted Mere to reassess her future. Encouraged by her older brother, she sought opportunities outside her circumstances. Upon his suggestion, she applied for a visual arts program at the University of the South Pacific, despite initially being unfamiliar with the field. To her surprise, she was selected as one of three candidates from a pool of 30.
This pivotal moment opened the doors to new artistic experiences for Mere, who was introduced to a range of mediums including acrylic paints and canvas. The opportunity to attend workshops and exhibitions deepened her passion for art. A significant influence in her journey was meeting Anare Somumu, a celebrated children’s book artist, who guided her into the local art scene and helped her connect with other artists.
As she began to showcase her work alongside notable local artists, Mere embraced her talent, realizing the power of creation and expression it afforded her. Her inspiration stems from her surroundings, cultural heritage, and a profound connection to her land, or vanua. She is dedicated to using her art not only for personal fulfillment but to educate younger generations about their heritage and the significance of preserving their culture.
Mere strongly advocates for education, reflecting on her own regrets about not pursuing her studies more fully in her youth. As she balances her responsibilities as a mother, she encourages her daughters to achieve academic success alongside nurturing their artistic abilities. Her eldest daughter is already following in her creative footsteps.
Looking ahead, Mere’s aspirations include furthering her learning in the arts and becoming an illustrator for children’s books, thus keeping her artistic journey alive while inspiring future generations.
Mere Rasue’s story serves as a reminder of resilience and the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion against the odds. Her commitment to her craft and heritage not only enriches her own life but also has the potential to impact many others positively.
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