Fiji Dolphins

This 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.

This painting was inspired by a boat trip to the Yasawa Islands in Western Fiji. Jutting up out of a turquoise sea, the tips of volcanic mountains form a dramatic skyline. Shown here are Kuata, Waya Lailai, and Waya. The reefs fringing these remote islands are teaming with an amazing array of sea creatures. The sight of a school of spinner dolphins, leaping playfully through the waves, is always a special thrill!

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. 

This 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.