Fiji’s allure lies in its beautiful landscapes, culture, and the spirit of its people, according to José Legarra, a Spanish architect associated with the European Union (EU) in Fiji. Originally from Pamplona, Spain, a city with a rich Roman history, he expressed his deep affection for sketching, describing it as a ‘universal language’ that transcends barriers.
José arrived in Fiji in August 2022, where he has been actively involved in several EU projects focusing on water management, sanitation, road construction, and bridge development in Fiji and throughout the region. He stated, “Working for the European Union feels like serving the public; it is demanding and comes with its own set of responsibilities.” He acknowledged that while his job comes with established guidelines that limit creative freedom, he finds solace in sketching during his leisure time.
Always carrying a foldable chair and notepad, José sketches the places he visits, capturing a raw, unfiltered perspective of Fiji. He emphasized his approach by stating, “I don’t draw things to make them look beautiful; I draw them as they are. Images carry more emotion and meaning this way.”
Despite warnings from colleagues about certain neighborhoods in Suva, José remains unbothered, stating that his presence as a foreign sketch artist often sparks curiosity among locals. He engages with the community by offering quick portraits of individuals he meets along the way.
As an architect, he appreciates the significance of historical structures. He lamented the decay of some heritage buildings in Suva but praised others, like the Toorak Central building and the Regal Theatre, which have retained their original style during renovations.
He also addressed environmental concerns related to architecture, pointing out that black skyscrapers are not eco-friendly due to their high heat absorption rates, which lead to increased air conditioning use and energy consumption. José believes that while discussions about climate change are vital, action must start locally. He hopes that through his artistic endeavors, he can influence public awareness about sustainability.
José incorporates the lush landscapes of Fiji into his sketches, yearning for greater appreciation of the natural beauty surrounding the islands. A frequent hiker at Mount Korobaba, he expressed dismay at the litter left behind by fellow hikers, urging citizens to take better care of their environment.
Reflecting on Fijian culture, José admires the harmony between the country’s two main ethnic groups and noted how this unity is showcased in their passion for rugby. He also appreciates the frequent rain, which contributes to Fiji’s vibrant greenery.
With four more years remaining in his contract, he eagerly anticipates continuing to explore and capture the beauty of Fiji through his art. José has a particular fondness for waterfalls and looks forward to visiting the famous Savu-i-one waterfall at Koroyanitu National Park, with plans to explore Taveuni next.
Through his sketches, he aspires to inspire local artists to express themselves on issues close to their hearts. He believes that art transcends language barriers, with drawings serving as powerful tools for communication. José concludes with a philosophy of simplicity: “Life is already complicated, so the less you complicate it, the better it’s going to be for you and everyone around you.”