ART - The Art of Nora a success

THE vernissage of “PULSE: The Art of Nora” Exhibition last month at the Oceania Centre in USP was a great success.

The Fiji and China art and culture inspired exhibition by artist, Nora Z had over 120 people in attendance on its opening night.

Nora said the opening was heartwarming and meaningful.

“It was a joyful evening filled with connection, conversation and appreciation for art and culture. Seeing so many people from different backgrounds come together was very special,” she said.

“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful. As my first solo exhibition in Fiji, this was a big step for me – not just as an artist, but also as a member of the local community.

“The warm support from everyone made me feel at home and it encouraged me to keep creating.”

Among the guests at the exhibition were representatives from the Chinese Embassy, the China Cultural Centre in Fiji, the University of the South Pacific, the local arts community and many supportive friends and artists from both Fiji and abroad.

A painting that received a lot of praise during the opening was a painting of a young Chinese and Fijian playing together on a beach.

“It touched many people. Guests told me it gave them a sense of hope and harmony – a visual symbol of cross-cultural friendship.”

For Nora, a painting that she connected with the most was of a Fijian woman sitting and smiling in her own home.

“That piece is close to my heart. It was inspired by real moments after a cyclone. Her warm smile and strength reminded me of the deep resilience and kindness of Fijian people.”

Art has the power to influence people.

“I truly believe that art can touch hearts, spark reflection and even inspire change.

“It goes beyond language; it’s an emotional expression of its own. Whether it’s about culture, environment, or identity – art helps people connect and see things differently.

“In this exhibition, I included several paintings and installations that focused on ocean and coral reef protection – such as a giant triton sculpture, which draws attention to the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

“Through these works, I hope to raise awareness and inspire more people to care for the beautiful land and sea that we all depend on, especially here in Fiji. As an artist, I feel a strong responsibility to speak for nature in a way that words cannot.”

She chose the Oceania Centre at USP to showcase her art as it was a vibrant space that represented creativity and cultural exchange in the Pacific.

“It felt like the perfect place to showcase a dialogue between Chinese and Fijian culture through art.

Nora said she sees a growing appreciation for art in Fiji, especially with the younger generation.

“They are becoming curious about visual storytelling. My message to them is to not wait for the perfect moment, just start creating. Your voice matters and art is a powerful way to share it.”

During the opening of the exhibition a few art pieces were reserved and sold.

“I was touched – not just because of the sales, but because it means that the art and work connected with people on a deeper level.”

Setting up a solo exhibition comes with its fair share of challenges and while organising the exhibition, Nora had to manage her time well.

“Time management was one of the biggest challenges. Balancing creation, logistics, and outreach wasn’t easy but thanks to a lot of help from friends, family, the USP team and a lot of late nights — we made it happen.

She thanked many people for the success of the exhibition.

“I thank my husband and daughter for always supporting me, my friends for their encouragement and practical help, the USP team, especially Katrina and Ben for making this possible and the Chinese Embassy for their support.

“I’m also grateful to the local artists who came to celebrate this journey with me.”

She said she will continue to create and explore art.

“I plan to host more community workshops, collaborate with local artists and work on a new series that focuses on environmental themes in the Pacific. The journey is just beginning.”

The Oceania Centre director, Katrina Igglesden officially opened the exhibition.