Fiji Golden Iguanas Masi painting

Mystery 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.