The preservation of traditional Fijian art and culture through practices such as masi printing, weaving, and carving is vital for maintaining a vibrant cultural identity. This importance was emphasized by Maciusela Raitaula, the Cultural and Arts Manager for the Fiji Arts Council, during his recent discussion with Fiji One News.
Raitaula noted that while the arts are often viewed as a female-dominated field, more men are emerging in areas like carving and pottery. The Fiji Arts Council is focused on promoting men’s involvement in these crafts at the National Crafts Exhibition.
“We aim to involve men because they are and should also be integral to this crafting community,” Raitaula stated. He mentioned that there are skilled craftsmen from Kabara and Fulaga specializing in carving, as well as artisans from Rewa and Nasilai engaged in pottery.
In a notable display of tradition, 74-year-old Paula Liga, a master carver from Fulaga, shared his hopes to ensure that the art of carving is transmitted to future generations. “To all I-Taukei people, I encourage you to recognize the talents we possess in carving, weaving, and other skills. It is essential that we nurture these practices and teach our children, so they understand that these talents are blessings from God,” Liga remarked.
Additionally, advocate for upcycling, Jane Naulu, who participated in the exhibition, aims to promote waste reduction through creative recycling. She showcased earrings made from repurposed beer cans, expressing hope that such initiatives could empower local women and youth to generate income while contributing to environmental sustainability. “By turning discarded materials into something beautiful, we can lessen the waste in our communities,” Naulu explained.
The National Crafts Exhibition is taking place over the next two days at the Saint Stephens Building in Suva, running from 9 am to 7 pm, providing an opportunity for the community to engage with local art and culture.
In a world increasingly leaning toward modernity, initiatives like the National Crafts Exhibition serve as a beacon of hope for cultural preservation. Encouraging both men and women to engage in traditional crafts fosters inclusivity and fortifies community bonds, ensuring that invaluable skills and practices are preserved for future generations.
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