Sigavou Studios
Sigavou Studios Crafter Profile
As one of Fiji’s most prominent visual artists, Maria Rova is known for her vibrant, contemporary paintings on traditional Fijian barkcloth and Habotai Silk.
Fiji’s natural environment and rich cultural heritage provide a diverse source of inspiration to this award-winning artist, who works from her home-based studio in Nadi, on Fiji’s main island Viti Levu.
Maria, who is of American-German heritage, describes her connection to Fiji as “a love affair in more ways than one”.
While training as an elementary school teacher in England, Maria met her future husband, who hails from the small island of Taveuni in northern Fiji. Her decision to move to the South Pacific with him in 1991 has had a profound impact on her art.
Maria’s work evolves out of a unique perspective – that of a newcomer finding her feet in an extended Fijian family with a rich cultural heritage very different to her own, in a tropical island environment full of exotic flora and fauna.
“Growing new roots has been both challenging and exhilarating” explains Maria. “First impressions eventually give way to deeper layers of meaning if one takes the time to look and understand. This is something I have increasingly explored in my art, using overlapping forms to show connections and explore perceptions. I love weaving an open-ended element of abstract shapes into my compositions, inviting the viewer to interact with the artwork individually, forming their own, personal interpretation of what they see.”
What started as a kitchen-table enterprise has become a way of life for the Rova family, with their own journey to make a living from the arts inspiring them to develop a support network for local artists and craftspeople.
Community craft fairs, children’s classes, group exhibitions and a pottery training project have evolved from that. Giving back to the community is a central philosophy from Sigavou Studios, their family-owned art company which now employs several art assistants who help to create the hand-painted limited edition ranges that Maria designs.
Much of Maria’s current work is created in acrylics on traditional barkcloth crafted by women from her mother-in-law’s village on a small atoll. An integral part of Fijian culture, this papery material is made from the inner bark of tropical mulberry trees.
Maria’s other medium of choice is dyes and resist on white habotai silk, though she is known to experiment with clay, cement plaster and glass, as well as the occasional collage project.
“The rhythmic, geometrical patterns and earthy tones of ancient barkcloth art find an echo amidst the contemporary colours and forms that characterize my art. The vibrant colour combinations I often use in my silk paintings reflect back to a fascination with art by the European Expressionists of the early 20th century. Henri Matisse’s use of flat, bold shapes finds an echo in my work as well.”
“Painting is a wonderful way of expressing my love of life and respect for Fiji’s uniqueness. In the fast-paced life of the 21st century, it is easy to become oblivious to the beauty hidden in our surroundings. My artwork seeks to rekindle in my own soul a sense of wonder in the small details of nature – the ordinary as well as the exotic.”
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Fish of FijiWater-based paint on barkcloth. This design was inspired by a fish named after our islands: the ‘Fiji Devil’ (Abudefduf coeruleus). These bright blue damsel fish can often be seen darting about in rock pools or playing hide and seek amongst branches of coral. Washed into tidal pools by changing currents, they are one of the first of many thrilling sights waiting to greet the visitor to Fiji’s reefs.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Fiji FrangipaniWater-based paint, with coral sand from the sun-soaked beaches of Fiji…With its delicately curved, waxy petals and unique fragrance, the frangipani is the quintessential tropical flower in the minds of many. Frangipanis are synonymous with celebration in Fiji: strings of them are worn around the neck during dances and feasts. And a frangipani tucked behind the right ear shows that the wearer is in a relationship, while a blossom sported on the left announces that the wearer is free and single!
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Basslets Dancing Masi PaintingFiji’s coral reefs are inhabited by eye-catching fairy basslets - the inspiration behind this painting. Basslets are amongst the most colorful of tropical fish, living in large, loose schools along drop-offs and coral outcrops.
Water-based paint applied using sponging technique similar to that used by traditional Fijian masi-kesa artists, with details drawn in pigment pen.
Fijian Masi, a renewable resource, is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Tropical Night Masi paintingTall palms bend as the night wind tosses their branches, their long fronds whipping and rustling like cascades of silver ribbons. Light of the new moon catches on the waves as they swell and recede in endless rhythm: the breathing of mother nature. Overhead, millions of stars pinpoint the darkness, adding their magic to the night on the beach that inspired this painting.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Fiji Golden Iguanas Masi paintingMystery surrounds the arrival of Iguanas in Fiji, for these creatures are closely related to the jungle Iguanas of Central America. Could they, or their eggs, have floated across the Pacific on rafts of vegetation in a bygone age? Today, as they struggle to survive encroaching civilization and imported predators, Iguanas have become favoured symbols of Fiji native wildlife.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Fiji Ground Frogs Masi PaintingThis Fiji Frog Masi painting was inspired by a recent story in our local newspaper: For the last twenty years, the Fiji Ground Frog or “Boto Ni Viti” (Platymantis vitianus) was presumed extinct as a result of the invasion of mongoose and giant toads. However, it has just been rediscovered in the dense rainforests of the Nakauvadra Range. The Boto Ni Viti, one of two native species of frogs, is a great athlete, capable of leaping and swimming at speed. The patterns on my frogs are inspired by traditional Fijian barkcloth designs.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Pasifika Masi painting- Emblems of FijiThis Fijian Masi painting is one of a pair, celebrating emblems of Fiji’s forests and seas. Traditional legends feature many of the animals found in Fiji’s reefs, explaining how they got there, or attributing magical powers to them. One of the spirits worshiped by ancient Fijians was a sea snake, revered as especially powerful. Turtles, on the other hand, were symbols of good luck, bringing blessings to those who encountered them!
This Fiji painting features a Fiji Turtle, Sea snake, crab, fish, palm trea and shell.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Dolphins Silk Painting with Masi mountThis artwork is part of a series of Limited Edition Originals, each painted by hand. Artist M. W. Rova uses pure, white silk and dyes to create the vivid compositions for which she is known. Rova’s art is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of tropical Fiji, where she lives with her young family.
The frame surrounding the silk painting is made from traditional Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth. This is produced by village women on the island of Vatulele. A renewable resource, ‘masi’ is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes day to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking, and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Fiji Musing Silk PaintingThis Fiji Musing Silk & Masi artwork is part of a series of Limited Edition Originals, each painted by hand. Nadi-based artist Maria Rova uses dyes and resist on pure, white silk to create vivid compositions that express her love for Fiji. The wildlife, culture, and scenery of Rova’s South Pacific home are themes that run throughout her award-winning work.
The frame surrounding the silk painting is made from traditional Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth. This is hand-crafted by village women on the island of Vatulele. A renewable resource, ‘masi’ is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes day to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking, and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
When you are ready to frame your painting, simply peel the backing card off and mount on a colored background of your choice.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Marine Motifs iii Silk paintingThis Fiji Marine Motifs silk artwork is part of a series of Limited Edition Originals, each painted by hand. It features a Fiji Dolphin, Fiji Fish and Fiji shell. Nadi-based artist Maria Rova uses dyes and resist on pure, white silk to create vivid compositions that express her love for Fiji. The wildlife, culture, and scenery of Rova’s South Pacific home are themes that run throughout her award-winning work.
The frame surrounding the silk painting is made from traditional Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth. This is hand-crafted by village women on the island of Vatulele. A renewable resource, ‘masi’ is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes day to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking, and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Framing instructions
This artwork has been left unframed for ease of shipping.
When ready to frame, simply peel the painting from its temporary backing and mount on a coloured background of your choice, leaving the rough edges of the masi showing to enhance its natural look.
Blue Davui Fiji Conch Shell"Davui" is the Fijian word for conch shell. These beautiful shells hold a significant place in Fijian culture as ceremonial items. They are used as trumpets to announce traditional events such as the anointing of a new chief. A small hole is bored at the tip of the shell and the herald blows through this, creating a low wailing sound that seems to resonate with mysteries of an ancient oceanic past.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Fiji Green Turtle“Vonu” is the Fijian word for turtle, painted here in the cool colours of our tropical waters. Turtles are revered in island legends as symbols of wisdom and blessing. Though their numbers have been dwindling, greenback, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles still visit Fiji’s beaches to breed as they journey through the Pacific Ocean along ancient migratory paths.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Little Fiji FishHand-painted on barkcloth, using a stenciling technique learnt from traditional ‘masi kesa’ artists. ‘Ika Lailai’ means ‘little fish’ in Fijian. This painting is one of several works of art by M. W. Rova that are inspired by the myriad of tiny fish that make Fiji’s coral reefs a teaming underwater zoo of life and color.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
SeahorseWater-based paint on masi. These little sea creatures certainly have some fascinating habits. Male seahorses take fatherhood to a level that would be the envy of many a human feminist! Males can be distinguished by a pouch, located just below their stomachs. The female deposits her eggs into this pouch, and dad is ‘pregnant’ with the babies for several weeks before they are born!
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Ocean StarsFiji's Ocean Sea Stars are famous for their striking blue colour. This mixed media painting features white coral sand from the palm-fringed shores of the Yasawa Islands, and dark, volcanic sand from Nadi’s Wailoaloa Beach. Bright blue starfish (Linckia laevigata) are a common sight among the shifting sands and coral outcrops of Fiji’s lagoons, where they add their vivid colour to the symphony of beauty waiting to be discovered beneath the waves.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Pacific StarfishWater-based paint on dyed barkcloth, with details drawn in white coral sand from Yasawa beaches, and dark, volcanic sand from Nadi’s Wailoaloa Beach. One of the Fijian words for starfish is ‘ilokoloko ni qio’, which translates poetically as ‘shark’s pillow’! Pacific reefs are home to starfish of various shapes and colors, uniquely beautiful in both symmetry and texture.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Three Turtles ArtThere are several varieties of sea turtles that visit Fiji waters on their annual migration through the Pacific Ocean. Now listed as endangered species, these creatures feature in island legends as symbols of wisdom and good fortune. The patterns on the backs of the turtles in this painting echo motifs found in traditional art around the region.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Forest Leaves BookmarkFiji is a tropical island paradise complete with lush rainforests. This hand-painted Forest Leaves bookmark, made from traditional Fijian barkcloth or 'masi' comes in 3 colours:
- Turquoise & purple
- Blue & purple
- Brown/orange.
Fijian ‘masi’ is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Masi bookmark is mounted on black card, which can be gently removed from backing when ready to use.
Three Turtles Art earth tones
Similar to the Three Turtles Art in green/gold/purple tones, this painting is in earth tones.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
Well Wisher TurtleThe Well Wisher Turtle is a colourful painting featuring a Fijian Turtle and flowers, painted in browns and golds on Masi.
Fijian ‘masi’, also called barkcloth, is produced by village women on islands such as Vatulele. A renewable resource, masi is made by harvesting strips of bark from specially grown paper-mulberry trees. Each piece takes days to process, involving repeated pounding, soaking and stretching. These traditional skills are passed on from generation to generation, with certain clans being considered the experts in masi-making. The uneven quality of the masi reflects its handmade origin.
Maria Rova lives in Nadi, Fiji. Her artwork is inspired by the wildlife, culture, and scenery of the Pacific, especially that of the remote island of Taveuni to the north of the Fiji group, which is home to her husband’s traditional clan. Sustained by forest and reef, Taveuni villagers still follow many of the ancient cultural practices that give Fijian people their unique identity. The artist wishes to acknowledge gratefully the impact that her Fijian family has had on her work.
About: Maria Rova
Maria’s paintings have won a string of awards at local and national exhibitions. Her art features prominently on the walls of resorts and corporate offices around Fiji, as well as in numerous private collections in Fiji and abroad.