PAULO SUIQA THE ARTIST

We spoke to Bernadette earlier in the year about her journey in the world of performing arts. Today, we catch up with her older brother, Paulo Suiqa.

Self employed artist, Paulo Suiqa

The 32-year-old is a self-employed artist who has such a beautiful artistic eye. “Growing up, I had a wild imagination shared. This often got him into trouble. Growing up in a military household, Paulo took advantage of any opportunity he had to go outside and learn more about whatever tickled his curiosity.

He grew up like any other kid, cheeky, lively and always curious about how things work and why they work the way do. Until he watched the first superman animation. He was introduced to a whole new world of animation, color and creativity. He started to sketch superheroes and practiced until he was satisfied with the results.

The ‘art addict’ has been blessed with the opportunity to teach and share his knowledge with the younger generation. He is also a member of group, Selfless Fiji which has given him a platform to showcase his artistic skills.

When asked who his biggest influences are, Paulo said his younger sister, Bernadette Suiqa and his friend, Solomose Rabuli. “They were always supportive plus seeing them pushing towards achieving their goals gave me that little push to do the same” he said.

Sibling, Bernadette and Paulo Suiqa taking over the world.

Although he has big shoes to fill when it comes to his sister’s success in the performing arts industry, this does not deter young Paulo from paving his own way with his masterpieces.

He’s very insightful when it comes to the world of art. “Yes, art is growing in Fiji but, people are always looking for something new and out of the ordinary, something that will capture their attention and transport them to a different world. This is what we as artists aim to do” he shared.

Being recognized by some of the biggest artists in the country has him stars truck however, being involved in his industry with his skillset, there are challenges. These challenges have to do with the fees involved in creating such beautiful spaces “clients either my charges are too high or once the work is complete, clients bargain for a price lower than what was agreed upon”, he shared.  This may have to do with the lack of awareness regarding the hard work put into bringing one’s vision to life.

Paulo did dabble in the world of pottery; however, the call of his colorful paintbrush was stronger. He also tried singing which was quite successful as he was one of the top 10 contestants at a hibiscus event. After exploring different aspects of art, Paulo chose to go with his heart, and it has been quite a beautiful journey fueled by his love and passion.

He calls out to young blooming artists to “be creative and unique, bring something new to the table”. He also said that a paint brush isn’t the only art skill one can use to being their wildest imagination to life, “you can work with try other art styles like wood crafting and steel sculptures but first things first focus on school and find your path from there”