I had the most peaceful, cultural experience yesterday when I visited the Artists Association of Solomon Islands exhibition at the Art Gallery in Honiara. With soft, relaxing music being played throughout the air-conditioned gallery, I drifted in and out of a meditative state as I engaged with each piece of art.
Artists were on hand to talk me through the dynamics of their pieces, explaining the meaning behind the work and talking to me about their own stories. This helped me appreciate the complexity and beauty of the art even further.
The exhibition celebrates the 24th anniversary of the Artists Association with the theme ‘Breathing Living Art’. The event includes paintings, jewellery, carvings and textiles as well. The pieces on display really do represent the ‘best of the best’ of what the Solomon Island art scene has to offer.
One painting in particular (pictured below) took my breath away. I stared at it for quite a while, mesmerised by the bright intertwining images of ocean, animals and sky. The detail was exquisite.
The exhibition is open until 23rd March and I highly recommend visiting the Art Gallery to view the work. Entry to the exhibition is free and all of the artwork is available for sale (prices as marked). Stalls are also set up in the Art Gallery grounds with items for purchase.
If you have any questions, please call Barney Ronie the President of the Artists Association on 746 8414.
The Pineapple Post 
After a long association with art/artists in the Solomons (since the late 70’s) and involvement in the setting up of the SI Artists Association it is good to see that it is thriving again and, from the photos, that the print making especially is still so wonderful.
The Solomons is blessed with many very good visual artists and carvers/sculptors many of whom work to a very high standard. These artists deserve your so please, expats, buy up before you leave the country! – – all the best to all of the artists. Jan Pana (artist/graphic designer)