THE constant development of art in Fiji has seen it become a regional leader in the field.
And it is this constant development that has the region eagerly anticipating Fiji's contribution to the 11th Pacific Arts Festival in the Solomon Islands from July 1-14.
Fiji Arts Council director Laisiasa Veikoso said Fiji was always looked at as a leader and always provided some of the best displays during the Pacific Arts Festival.
He attributed this success to the richness of Fiji's different cultures.
"In Fiji we are so multicultural that we all get influenced in some way by the cultures we come into contact with and this shows through in our work, be it dance, design or painting," he said.
He said Fiji also enjoyed greater access to international development in respective genres which further influenced the work produced by artists.
"This coupled with the continuous art and dance exhibitions year in, year out allows for development of emerging artists."
Mr Veikoso said the level of art in the country kept getting better which meant the competition for places in the Pacific Arts Festival was tough.
"Our display at the last Pacific Arts Festival had a 'wow' factor and this year we are looking to create that same impact and maybe take it up another notch."
However, Mr Veikoso also said there was room for emphasis on cultural development in the country.
"Most of the countries at the Pacific Arts Festival have cultural development at the top of their priority list but in Fiji it's more towards the bottom," he said.