At the recent Central Women’s Expo in Suva, a diverse array of colorful handicrafts captivated attendees, but one display, featuring the pottery of Maria Salanieta, exuded a profound sense of heritage and purpose. Hailing from Serua Island, Ms. Salanieta carries with her the legacy of her lineage, a legacy steeped in the art of pottery that dates back generations.
“Pottery is in my blood,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of her cultural roots in her craft. With her mother having passed away, Maria felt a deep responsibility to continue the tradition that has been passed down through the women of her family. Each of her pottery pieces is crafted from a unique type of soil found in Rewa, the same soil used by her ancestors to create their own works of art. “It holds our stories,” she explained, showcasing the connection between the soil, her family history, and her artistic expression.
In addition to her pottery, Maria also showcased traditional Fijian trays made from pandanus leaves and handmade necklaces, underscoring the interconnectedness of her craft and cultural practices. “It’s how we survive, and it’s how we remember,” she shared, highlighting the vital role that these art forms play in preserving Fijian culture.
The expo serves as more than just a market; it is a vibrant space where women’s stories are valued and cultural practices are celebrated. Maria asserted, “I don’t just sell pottery; I share where I come from,” indicating that her work is not just about commerce, but about honoring and sustaining her cultural heritage.
This important narrative mirrors calls made by various artisans at similar expos, emphasizing the need for traditional crafts to be preserved amidst changing lifestyles. Experts advocate that engaging more women in these art forms can lead to the revitalization of crucial cultural practices while providing economic opportunities. For instance, artisans like Laniana and Livia, who also participated in the Women’s Expo, have captivated audiences with their sustainable innovations in jewelry and coconut shell art, demonstrating how traditional crafts can adapt and thrive in a modern context.
Maria Salanieta’s commitment to showcasing her Fijian heritage through pottery is a testament to the resilience of cultural practices in the face of modernity. Her work, along with that of her fellow artisans, serves as a beacon of hope, intertwining cultural preservation with economic empowerment for future generations. Thus, the future of Fijian crafts not only appears promising but also paints a picture of community strength and shared responsibility in maintaining cultural identity.
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