"Moiululepai" ORIGINAL

Moiu‘ule‘apai is an original acrylic painting rooted in Samoan legend, honoring compassion, reconciliation, and the restoration of dignity.

Rays of light, etched with sacred patterns inspired by Samoan tatau, descend upon a woman surrounded by waves and memory. She is Moiu‘ule‘apai, a high chief’s daughter who married Tuifiti. When famine struck, she was blamed and banished to the inland forests, left only with her maidservant and the weight of unjust exile.

Her brother, Taeotagaloa, journeyed from Manu‘a to find her. Rather than returning with anger, he brought compassion—planting taro, yam, and banana in the mountains so that she would not be forgotten. Through this act of care, her dignity was restored.

Moved by this gesture of love and reconciliation, Tuifiti welcomed Moiu‘ule‘apai home. The place became known as Fiti-i-Uta—“Inland Fiji.” That name lives on in Samoa, and in this painting, where the light returns to her, as it always should have.

Painted in layered acrylic on canvas board, this 16" × 20" work balances portraiture with movement and symbolism. The surface is professionally varnished and sealed to preserve depth and longevity.

This is a one-of-a-kind original artwork, signed by the artist, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity that is emboss-sealed and signed, affirming its originality and provenance.

Moiu‘ule‘apai is offered as an heirloom piece—created to hold meaning in a home and to be passed down through generations.

Details

• Original acrylic painting

• Size: 16" × 20"

• Medium: Acrylic on canvas board

• Finish: Varnished and sealed for protection

• Signature: Signed by the artist

• Certificate of Authenticity: Emboss-sealed and signed by the artist

• One-of-a-kind original artwork