A 19 x 4 meter mural emphasizing conservation and sustainability was unveiled in Suva last week in honor of World Environment Health Day. Created by local artists Jack Eastgate, Hefrani Barnes, and Mele Nabola, the mural is part of the “Art for Change” initiative, a collaboration between Greenhouse Coworking and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group.
Maria Ronna Luna Pastorizo-Sekiguchi, founder of Greenhouse Coworking and The Greenhouse Studio, expressed her belief that art and creativity, driven by partnerships, can transform communities and societies. She stated, “Using art to convey messages, transform perspectives, and motivate people to action is visual storytelling at its best.” She added that AFD Group shares this vision of art as a powerful catalyst for change.
The AFD Group is a French public organization that funds impactful projects worldwide, aligning with local sustainable development choices while considering the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. In the Pacific, the AFD focuses on climate change mitigation, preserving the resilience of Pacific islands, and protecting biodiversity.
Elodie Vitalis, AFD Group representative in Fiji, noted the pride in partnering with Greenhouse Coworking to raise awareness about conservation and climate change. “This initiative perfectly aligns with the values and priorities of AFD and the Pacific, such as climate change, conservation, human development, and stewardship,” she said. She also mentioned the project’s role in supporting the training of two young female artists dedicated to creating a sustainable future for Fiji.
The vibrant mural on Greenhouse Coworking’s exterior wall, located at the intersection of Des Voeux Rd and McGreggor Rd in Suva’s upper CBD, is intended to serve as an optimistic representation of a sustainable future for Fiji and beyond.
Sekiguchi stated that since the opening of Greenhouse Coworking in 2021, they envisioned meaningful artwork decorating their wall and found a fitting partner in AFD. The Art for Change initiative will also allow the artists to host regular paid classes open to the public, focusing on using visual arts to inspire change and promote social action.
“We welcome new partners to join this initiative, as we envision it growing beyond classes and murals,” she said. Sekiguchi envisions Des Voeux Rd transforming into an Arts Precinct, featuring venues like Mana Coffee, Alliance Francaise, and Baka Books, and hosting guided art walks and Night Markets that celebrate various artists and creative entrepreneurs.