 |
QUICK LINKS |
|
|
| Press Releases |
|
The Fiji Arts Council calls for more support from stakeholders and private sectors in developing and strengthening Pacific’s traditional and emerging arts.
A week long ‘Wasawasa (a song written by Sailasa Tora which means ‘oceans' in the Fijian vernacular) Festival of Oceans’ organized by Fiji Arts Council (FAC), National Trust and Fiji Museum showcased both local and visiting artists various exhibitions.
Artists showcase involved demonstration and performances that interpreted issue like poverty alleviation, governance, environmental conservation, empowerment of women and positive development for youth.
The Director of FAC, Letila Mitchell said the three agencies came together to strengthen the secretariat and hopes to make it a major international festival as the support builds each year.
“We work with the government under the Ministry of Education, National Heritage, Culture and Arts which gives us small grants to for the protection and preservation of arts and crafts development.”
Ms Letila said the three agencies have never worked together and this was an opportunity to come together for a mini festival and arts and crafts individuals came from neighboring villages to showcase their talents.
Fifty-seven year old Eleni Kawikawica of Naisausau/Namara came all the way from Tailevu representing six villages to sell the numerous craft works of adornments, home decorations, mats, curtains and baskets made from natural materials.
“We should make use of the things around us such as shells and coconuts. We exchange our materials with the craft ladies here in Suva as they have the tools to further decorate and this way we make money.”
The ‘Wasawasa Festival of Oceans’ is currently held at the Fiji Museum and Thurston Gardens finishes this Saturday with on-going activities such as Quilting, Mural Arts, Dance, Writing Festival, National Heritage Trust Exhibition and National Fine Arts Exhibition.
-Ends-
No:2165
 Top of Page
|
|
|
