Fiji’s newest art gallery sits atop the air-conditioned haven of the Jack’s of Fiji complex in downtown Nadi.
The Gallery of Fijian Art and Design sets out to celebrate and showcase Fiji’s creative heritage through painting, sculpture, glass work and various other art forms.
While everything is for sale, visitors are also welcome to simply admire the work of some of Fiji’s most renowned artists.
The inaugural exhibition, Island Icons – Scenes of the Pacific, is curated by glass artist Alice Hill and Peter Lancaster of Lancaster Press Fiji. Peter specialises in lithographic printmaking at his studio in Malaqereqere, and some of his moody, muted prints of flora and ocean scenes are on display.
He and Hill have also assembled work from Savusavu sculptor Shane Bower, whose hanging bird you almost expect to speak to you, a finely wrought work on tapa by Alifereti Malai, ‘Coconut Seller’, a vibrant painting in acrylics by Arvindra Nath Sukul, and three of Stanley Waradi’s intricate assemblages of recycled materials.
Maria Rova of Sigavou Studios‘ distinctive geometric paintings, Mason Lee’s intricate portraits and Hill’s tactile glass bowls also feature.
“Our journey has always been rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Fiji, and this initiative is our way of giving back to the communities that have shaped our story,” said Nikul Khatri, Director of Jack’s of Fiji at the opening of the gallery.
“The Gallery of Fijian Art & Design is not just about showcasing beautiful creations – it’s about empowering local artists, nurturing creative talent, and ensuring that Fiji’s cultural voice continues to inspire future generations.”
The Gallery sits just by Jack’s of Fiji’s collection of tanoas and other traditional handicrafts. The juxtaposition of contemporary and heritage arts benefits from this proximity, as it is clear to visitors how some of the modern works have evolved from traditional roots.
In a centre where there are few places to see contemporary art of any form (and a shout-out to Vou and Sigavou Studios at the Vou Hub for their exceptional work here), Jack’s Gallery of Fijian Art and Design is an invaluable addition to the jet set town.
Jack’s of Fiji’s Gallery of Fijian Art and Design is at 401-403 Queens Rd in the centre of Nadi town.
