John Mausio is no stranger to the art community in Fiji.

Originally from Rotuma, Mr Mausio is a home-based artist and has been painting since 2009.

Ever since he was young, he knew he could draw.

“Even in school I would just draw even when the teacher was teaching in class,” said Mr Mausio.

Recently, he took part in an Art Exhibition in collaboration with the Fiji Arts Council and the China Cultural Centre.

His painting titled “The Drowning” was based on climate change and its effects.

“The most rewarding feeling is when people see my painting and they have their own definition about the art,” he said.

Mr Mausio paints from experience and the journey he has been through over the years, his art focuses on social issues such as mental health and individual empowerment.

As an artist, he feels the challenges that local artists faced in Fiji are: There is still no National Art gallery for artist to showcase their work. The absence of an association for artists in the country.

“Issues of finances, sustainability, marketing, and having a long -term client base is a challenge as well,” he said.

“There is no consistency with art (here), the Fiji Arts Council and Fiji Museum have been supporting our work and we’re very grateful for their support,” said Mr Mausio.

Mr Mausio is also a passionate volunteer artist who has worked on murals at the Saint Giles Hospital, Suva, with patients from 2009 to 2010.

He also worked with children under Save the Children Fiji at the Wainibuku Hart for a new playground last year.

“Working on the mural in St Giles made me realise first- hand the power and influence that art has,” he said.

He’s also part of a group of artists that showcased their art work at Leleuvia Island Resort called Waisiliva.

Currently he is working on a project based on the Rotuman culture and heritage and paying tribute to Rotuman legends.

He attributes his art passion to his wife, family, and friends who have supported him on his journey.

He acknowledged the influence of people like Anare Somumu, Irami Buli, Waqa Vuidreketi, Mason Lee, Collin Philip, Letila Mitchell, John Apted, Larry Thomas, and Alifereti Malai, amongst others.

His advice to other budding young artists out there is to believe in themselves, be true to who they are and to always be honest.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

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