Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says he looks forward to the private sector contribution towards the first National Gallery Contemporary Art in Fiji.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum was speaking during a special VIP visual display celebrating plans for the Fijian National Gallery of Contemporary Arts last night at St. Stephen building on Victoria Parade, Suva.

The National Gallery Contemporary Art is set to open in 2020 coinciding with Fiji’s 50th year of independence.

“If you look at the success of many art galleries around the world they are successful because the private sector actually participated and assisted,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“The culture you have today and the culture of tomorrow is something we must resonate with the people but also give a particular maturity to the people, give a particular self of self-confidence and that is what we need as a country and that is a particular level of self-confidence where we allow everybody to participate and grow as a country,” he said.

“From now and then there is a lot of work to be done. We want to bring in people that can teach our people who can impart their knowledge so that we can the locals occupying the space.”

Expertise from Fijian abroad

Meanwhile, Government is working closely with a Fijian-born international award-winning artist on the art gallery project.

Sheinina Lolita Raj is now living in Hollywood, USA. Last night she showcased a visual art of how her great great grandparents came to Fiji as indentured labourers.

Earlier this year, Ms Raj won an international award for Most Innovative Artist during the World Art Dubai Awards.

Vodafone Chief Operating Officer, Ronald Prasad said the gallery would be a true display of creativity that was possible through the culmination of art and innovation.

“Fiji is so rich in art and culture; and whilst we have some avenues to showcase talent and learn, this initiative to establish the Fijian National Gallery of Contemporary Art is an essential step towards providing a proper platform for showcasing our talent, art and heritage,” Mr Prasad said.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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