Islands of the Pacific
Micronesia, Melanesia, Polynesia
The
vast Pacific Ocean spans a third of the globe, embracing three broad divisions
of Oceanic peoples and cultures: the Micronesians, Polynesians, and Melanesians.
Unfortunately, the original social structures and traditions of the Pacific
island people have been disrupted over the past five centuries by various
Western intrusions. Since Captain Cook's arrival in the eighteenth century,
especially, the West has adversely affected the region causing disease and
commercial exploitation.
Yet,
in spite of the continued Westernization of the Pacific islands, the people
remain tied to the natural rhythms of their tropical environments. They live
simply and openly, and maintain a healthy romance with the ordinary and everyday
enjoyments. From the very young to the very old, their smiling faces reflect
a carefree joy and genuine happiness with existence. Their friendliness, hospitality
and sense of humor and independence will leave its imprint on those who take
the time to appreciate the fascinating blend of cultures, races, and ethnicities
that make up the inhabitants of the exotic western and southern Pacific islands.
"The deeper I journeyed into the human forest, the more convinced I became that to effectively interpret the human family and truly make my work live and breathe on canvas as a credible artist, I had to personally experience the people, their ways of being human, their instincts and their sense of community and family living. This was the only authentic way I could successfully translate the pulse of their culture and the many emotions that spilled out of each soul."
Copyright © 1999, R. Padre Johnson