Former police officer Kelepi Kolinisau hopes to continue carving when he is released from jail in the next two months.
The 32-year-old from Namuka-I-Lau showcased his carved items during the launch of the ‘Mataka Vou’ Arts Exhibition on Tuesday in Suva.
His work, along with that of other inmate artists, is on display at the Tagimoucia Art Gallery from Wednesday until Saturday, December 6 to 9.
Mr Kolinisau expressed how prison has humbled him.
“I learned carving when I was in prison. My people are known as woodcarvers, but for me, it was the first time I did it because most of the time I see them carving but never join them,” Kolinisau said.
“Last October, I was given a chance to learn carving, and I have learned so much. I plan to pursue carving when I am released. Prison has taught me to be grateful and appreciate everything and everyone I have in my life.
“I am prepared to go outside. I know the challenges I will face outside. I know my strengths and weaknesses, but I will improve when I go outside.”
The father of two said he was grateful to be given a platform to showcase his carved items.
He said everyone had different talents, but it depends on when someone taps on them.
“I have been in prison for four years. Only two months are left for me, and I am excited to go home. I have missed a lot of things at home, but as soon as I am released, I will make up for it,” he said.
“Prison has taught me life lessons that I will always remember. In prison, I learned to worship God wholeheartedly, which was something I never did when I was outside. When I was a police officer, I went to church, but it was never wholeheartedly; in prison, it opened my eyes to different possibilities.”
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