Mere Rasue, a 34-year-old artist from Ra with roots in Somosomo Village, has transformed her life through art, finding purpose and passion against the backdrop of her challenging journey. Raised in Lautoka by government-employed parents, Mere’s childhood prepared her for life’s complexities.
Although she made the decision to marry young and start a family in Ba, this choice brought its own difficulties, leading her to question her future. It was her elder brother, a lawyer, who inspired her to pursue her dreams. He encouraged her to look into an advertisement for visual arts courses at the University of the South Pacific, a subject she was unfamiliar with at the time. Mere took a chance, sketched a few pieces, and applied. Her determination paid off when she was selected as one of just three candidates from a pool of 30 applicants.
This opportunity opened a new world for Mere, introducing her to acrylics, canvases, and various artistic mediums. What began as a struggle soon evolved into an enriching experience filled with workshops and exhibitions. A pivotal moment in her artistic journey came when she met Anare Somumu at an art exhibition at the Fiji Museum. Anare’s guidance helped Mere expand her exposure within the art community, leading her to connect with other artists and join the Fiji Arts Council.
As she immersed herself in the local art scene, Mere discovered solace in her talent, recognizing the expressive power of her hands. Today, her artwork is deeply inspired by her surroundings and heritage, reflecting a strong connection to her cultural roots. She passionately aims to educate younger generations about their lost traditions through her art.
Mere emphasizes the importance of education, expressing regret for not fully embracing her schooling in her youth. She strives to ensure her daughters achieve a balance between their academic pursuits and artistic talents, with her oldest already following her artistic path.
With her eyes set on the future, Mere aspires to continue her artistic journey, dreaming of one day becoming an illustrator for children’s books. Her story stands as a testament to resilience, transformation, and the profound impact of embracing one’s gifts.
Mere Rasue’s journey reflects the power of determination and self-discovery, proving that it is never too late to pursue your passions and make a meaningful contribution to society. Her commitment to nurturing both her art and her daughters’ futures paints a hopeful picture for the next generation of artists.
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