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Romano Mạurea – Rotuman Tattoo & Art |
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A talented Rotuman tattooist and painter, Romano Fatiaki Sosefo is also known by his artistic moniker 'Romano Mạurea'. Based between Nadi, Fiji and South of Sydney, Australia, he is passionate about researching and reviving Rotuman art forms. This can clearly be seen in his unique Rotuman tattoo art and oil paintings, which are inspired by Rotuman culture, legends, the ocean and island life. Romano was born and raised in Ahạu, Motusa on the western side of Rotuma's main island. His mother, Elisabeth Luisa Konosi (Betty) grew up in Tia, Motusa, the daughter of Uragmafaga Isimeli and Mamao Konosi. His father, Nataniela (Jio) Sosefo was raised in Juju and Pepjei, the son of Siulia and Garagsau (Mose Soani). Romano moved to Fiji in his late teens to complete his education and with his sisters, became a founder and choreographer for Mạurea Entertainment, a Polynesian dance group. Between 2007 and 2009, they represented Rotuman, Fijian and various Polynesian dance styles in Fiji, American Samoa and Australia. Having also trained as a Master Dive Instructor, Romano has spent years working on dive boats, living between Rotuma, the Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups. He has a strong affinity with the ocean and island life, which is an ongoing inspiration in both his tattoo designs and paintings. Romano has practiced tattooing since a young age, initially using traditionally made tools and has now adopted modern tattoo apparatus. Rotuman themes are inherent in all of his artworks, but he also draws inspiration from various Polynesian and international cultural influences. Having established his artistic reputation in Fiji, Romano now has broadened his audience to Australia, where he currently resides on the NSW South Coast. The Art & Tattoo of Romano Mạurea |
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