Fijian art comes to the National Gallery
The South Pacific Oceania Centre has made history after some of its Fijian art works were purchased by the National Gallery of Australia in Melbourne.
The Australian Gallery has a number of works considered worthy as part of national arts history exhibitions.
Fijian artists Peni and Fong recently exhibited pieces at Melbourne’s Australian Print Workshop gallery, where their work was highly acclaimed. Gallery spokesperson Johanna Beasley said:
To have their works included in the national collection is the icing on the cake for Peni and Fong, who are understandably proud that they will be remembered as part of something important.
The works will go a long way towards cementing the status of Fijian art in Australia. The exhibition in Melbourne was the outcome of the country’s first ever print exhibition. The purchase is even more significant considering it was the first attempt at print making by the artists.
Fong attributes the success to an overwhelming response from Melbourne residents and the local arts community, along with members of the Melbourne Fijian community who attended the exhibition. More than 20 pieces were sold at the exhibition, and the National Gallery of Australia is currently undergoing the vetting process to confirm the acquisitions.
Polynesian and Aboriginal art is increasing in popularity worldwide, and is highly appreciated for its decorative and storytelling attributes, which translate beautifully as poster printing. The pieces often feature as wall decorations in homes and offices.
The Australian Gallery has a number of works considered worthy as part of national arts history exhibitions.
Fijian artists Peni and Fong recently exhibited pieces at Melbourne’s Australian Print Workshop gallery, where their work was highly acclaimed. Gallery spokesperson Johanna Beasley said:
“It’s to do with the fact that these artists have exhibited in Melbourne at the APW…that was a first for us and for artists to have that experience was amazing.”
To have their works included in the national collection is the icing on the cake for Peni and Fong, who are understandably proud that they will be remembered as part of something important.
The works will go a long way towards cementing the status of Fijian art in Australia. The exhibition in Melbourne was the outcome of the country’s first ever print exhibition. The purchase is even more significant considering it was the first attempt at print making by the artists.
Fong attributes the success to an overwhelming response from Melbourne residents and the local arts community, along with members of the Melbourne Fijian community who attended the exhibition. More than 20 pieces were sold at the exhibition, and the National Gallery of Australia is currently undergoing the vetting process to confirm the acquisitions.
Polynesian and Aboriginal art is increasing in popularity worldwide, and is highly appreciated for its decorative and storytelling attributes, which translate beautifully as poster printing. The pieces often feature as wall decorations in homes and offices.