By Ema Ganivatu
The ‘Alchemy’ exhibition—which is currently open to all at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva— is a call to action for artists and art lovers to recognize the value of local creativity.
“We need to promote that people can be inspired by what’s here and can create unique artwork,” says Alice Hill of Hot Glass Fiji, as she highlights the extraordinary creativity on display at the exhibition.
“I hope people recognize the talent we have in Fiji.
“[What] I really am hoping is that artists and art enthusiasts can come and see how we’ve got ten artists here, all their work is different, all inspired by the same thing, by Fiji.”
Besides Hill’s glasswork, Alchemy features master printmaking and lights by Peter Lancaster, intricately carved stools by Filimoni Koto, metalwork by Savusavu’s Shane Bower, metal and plastic sculptures by Stanley Waradi, Lynn McLaren’s luminous concrete vessels, whimsical clay pieces by Georgia Gremore, and arresting wall art by the Mana Clay Collective trio of Lisa Philip, Sai Tawanakoro, and Sandra Hiett.
For Hill, the goal is not just about showcasing beautiful works of art; it’s also about creating opportunities for artists.
“I’m hoping that we can create some income for our artists. And so, they can be proud of what they make, and they can sell what they make,” she says.
“My husband was a [dive] instructor, and we set up our own dive business here. That was before this, and we ran that for 10 years. We had our children, and then after 10 years, we were ready for a change. So, then we said, let’s do the glass blowing.”
“All of my work has a connection to Fiji,” she says as she describes the inspiration behind her creations.
“The idea is that when somebody looks at a piece of my work, it connects them whether that’s culturally or through our environment. I like people to interpret it in their way.”
She shares that the challenge and joy of creating art are in the details. “These pieces with spots and stripes are very challenging,” she says, pointing at some of the pieces on display. “I love spots and stripes they were my favourite, and still are.”
She finds these patterns both fun and difficult, pushing her creativity. “The great thing is, they’re the hardest, but also the most enjoyable for me.”
“Everything in here is made by myself and my team of glass blowers.”
Hot Glass Fiji has a popular studio in Korotogo, which welcomes tourists and visitors. It also works on commissions for many local businesses.
“There are obviously challenges that come with owning and running a business, especially since we have such a unique product. We have to import all our raw materials, which brings challenges like international shipping and sending things overseas,” Hill says.
Reflecting on her journey, she recalls how her path to becoming an artist wasn’t always clear.
“I found school difficult, and it wasn’t easy for me,” she admits.
However, everything changed when she entered the studio. “That’s where I found something I could do,” she says.
“After years of studying glass and designs, I got a job in London and worked for a glassblowing studio for two years, where I just made the same thing over and over and over again.”
She believes the repetition was key to improving her skills and gaining the experience she depends on today.
“Over the last five or six years, I’ve had the privilege of exhibiting here with the GPH, none of this would be possible without the support of our sponsors, the Grand Pacific. Hotel, Victoria Wines, and Guardforce.”
Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and the importance of local support in bringing art to life.
Alchemy continues at the Grand Pacific Hotel until 9 December. Entry is free.
