The Art of Nora’s exhibition added profound meaning beyond the display of art this month.
Aside from the art exhibition, artist Nora Z organised two other special events.
The two events – the Artist Salon and the Closing Cultural Experience – were held at the University of the South Pacific’s Oceania Centre Gallery.
The Artist Salon provided a relaxed and inspiring platform for artists from China and Fiji to exchange ideas, share practices, and explore new perspectives in art creation, curation and cultural storytelling.
Nora said the salon fosters cross-cultural dialogue and encourages mutual understanding through artistic expression.
“For Fijian participants the events offered a rare opportunity to engage directly with international artists, gain exposure to diverse growth and collaboration,” she said.
“It was also a meaningful occasion for the local art community, especially emerging artists and students to gain insights into global art dynamics while celebrating and sharing their unique cultural perspective.”
She said they hope to contribute to the development of a vibrant, globally connected contemporary art scene in Fiji.
Moderator at the Art Salon was Dr Katrina Talei Igglesden.
For the Closing Cultural Experience its aim was to foster understanding and appreciation for the rich artistic heritage of China and Fiji.
It offered a hands-on opportunity for participants to engage with traditional techniques and connect through creative expression.
Participants learned the process of Fijian tapa and crafting Chinese lacquer-painted fans.
Tapa or masi is a traditional bark cloth created in many Pacific Island cultures, during the event participants observed the preparation and decoration processes and even created their own piece.
Lacquer painting is a unique traditional Chinese art form with a history over 7000 years. Originally used for decorative and ritual objects, lacquer according to Nora has evolved into a refined artistic expression.
She said guests had the opportunity to create their own lacquer-painted fans blending ancient materials with contemporary aesthetics.
Nora said through those experiences, guests discovered how two cultures express art distinctly, but are equally meaningful deepening appreciation for cultural diversity.
The event carried a strong social message when Nora donated her painting Floating Home to USP, a work inspired by her concern for plastic pollution and dedicated to raising awareness about protecting Fiji’s beautiful oceans to the centre.
Overall, the exhibition was not only a showcase of Nora’s years of artistic creation, but also a heartfelt expression of her love for Fiji and her sense of responsibility to give back to the community.
Through her art and the activities surrounding the exhibition, Nora seeks to connect more deeply with the country, enrich people’s lives with beauty, and foster understanding between cultures.
Looking ahead, she hopes to collaborate with more galleries and institutions so her art can reach and inspire a wider audience.
Renowned Artist Irami Buli makes a point during the Art Salon at the USP
Oceania Centre Gallery. Picture: SUPPLIED
Through the culture exchange artists learn to print masi. Picture: SUPPLIED
Artist, Nora Z speaks to her guest at her art exhibition “Pulse: The Art of Nora” at the Oceania Centre at USP. Picture: SUPPLIED
Artist and participants learn to make Chinese lacquer painted fan.
Picture: SUPPLIED