A house full of heart

A large crowd attended the opening preview of Samoan artist Nanette Lela’ulu’s exhibition “In the house of my heart” at artists Ian and Kay George’s gallery The Art Studio in Arorangi on Monday evening.
While there was a large number from the Pacific Arts Association (PAA) Symposium being held this week at the Crown Beach Resort, the preview was well supported by locals.
Shows at The Art Studio normally start at 6pm but on this occasion the show began at 7.30pm due to another exhibition on the opposite side of the main road, of Tivaivai. That show, organized by the USP and President of the PAA, was also well attended.
In her landscapes of local buildings and residences, Nanette has captured perfectly, the intensity of local colours especially the greens and blues. Many overseas artists have commented at being surprised at the intensity of the colours locally and have endeavoured to capture this. One who did succeed was Sylvia Marsters.
In Nanette’s landscapes this intensity is apparent from a distance. Closer, you notice the artist has detailed only what is necessary. These are meaningful landscapes done by a thinking artist.
The large portraits contain much to interest the viewer. Each is a narrative. Included are items that commentate on character, history and struggle. Yet they do not clutter the work. Even the colours seem to sum up the subject looking back at the viewer. For instance, in the work depicting artist Jim Vivareare, the mountains in the background are not their normal colour. Then again Jim is no ordinary artist. The mountains extend out each side of Jim like a pair of wings. Ian George’s portrait has him sitting on a wooden crate. So appropriate if you are familiar with his work and his attachment to wooden crates.
These portraits are purposeful works, their completion timely because disciplined artists know two things, what to leave out and when to finish.
A lot more will be seen from this artist in future.
Prominent local artists at the show were Mahiriki Tangaroa, Joan Rolls-Gragg-herself a subject of a portrait, and Mike Tavioni. Paddy Walker, another subject of a portrait, was also present. Also present was Te Tika Mataiapo Dorice Reid, a tireless supporter and promoter of Pacific culture.
Nanette’s works are for sale with the prices ranging from $650 for the smaller landscapes to near $6,000 for the large portraits.

By Charles Pitt

Herald Issue 463 10 June
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