Guest Speaker, Debbie Sorensen, CEO, Pasifika Medical Association.
Sylvia Marsters, a distinguished New Zealand artist of Cook Islands descent, commemorates her 100th career exhibition with E Kura Reitumanava no Rarotonga at Bergman Gallery in Rarotonga. This exhibition showcases a new collection of paintings and prints that reflect her profound connection to her ancestral homeland.
Marsters' oeuvre is deeply influenced by the flora of the Pacific, particularly Hibiscus, Gardenia, and Frangipani flowers, which she regards as central to her artistic expression and personal identity. These botanical subjects have been a recurring motif, symbolizing her enduring fascination with the Cook Islands—a place she describes as "part fact, part fiction—some memory, some fantasy."
Early in her career, mentors such as Fatu Feu'u and Lois McIvor underscored the importance of reconnecting with her Pacific Island heritage, prompting Marsters to embark on a creative pilgrimage to the Cook Islands. Despite her upbringing in suburban Auckland, her father's homeland has remained an "endless source of fascination," inspiring her artistic journey.
The exhibition's title, "E Kura Reitumanava no Rarotonga," encapsulates rich cultural symbolism:
- Rei: A talisman necklace or 'ei reserved for special occasions.
- Kura: A sacred and special gift or message.
- Manava: Denoting the heart, the spiritual and emotional center of one's being, and the breath of life.
Through these intimate paintings, Marsters conveys her deep affection for Rarotonga, referring to them as her "love letters" to the island. Her extensive exhibition history spans over 30 years, including significant showcases in New Zealand, Fiji, and New York. Notably, her exhibitions draw substantial audiences in the Cook Islands, reflecting her esteemed status in the Pacific art community.
E Kura Reitumanava no Rarotonga not only marks a milestone in Marsters' career but also serves as a testament to her enduring connection to her cultural roots and her dedication to portraying the beauty and significance of Pacific flora.
