Elizabeth an artist in the making

The National People

By MICHELLE AUAMOROMORO
ELIZABETH Sewen Nema stumbled on a talent she never knew she had by chance.
The 20-year-old from Semera village in Upper Mendi, Southern Highlands never knew she was a “born painter” until last year.
“I didn’t acquire this talent from my family or my parents but it was a gift from God that I discovered only last year.
“I was motivated to paint when I saw a beautiful rainbow tree on YouTube. And because of its unique strength, I started to capture the colors’ strength using water colors.”
Elizabeth painted the rainbow tree on the back of her History book. It was her first painting. It was the moment she knew she had the talent as a painter.
She has never stopped since.
She puts aside time from her studies to paint, with the internet being her “tutor” and guide.
“I do illustrated art and paint mostly trees, waves, sunset and the night sky. I am self-taught and my only help is the internet which I use to develop my skill and knowledge in painting.”

“ It makes me happy. It also makes other people happy when they see beautiful colours on canvas.”

She paints as a hobby to relax her mind, and hopefully to make others happy.
“It makes me happy. It also makes other people happy when they see beautiful colors on canvas.”
Elizabeth is the eldest of four siblings. They grew up in Mendi.
She completed her studies at the PNG Paradise High School last year as a Social Science student.
She will study Business (Accounting and Entrepreneurship) at the Pacific Adventist University this year.
“I (lived) in Mendi for 18 years and in such a place, education is the only way you’ll succeed.”
She admits that she would have never discovered her talent if it wasn’t for her mother who decided to move the family to Port Moresby.
“My mum was strong and determined. She brought me and my siblings to Port Moresby (to access) better education opportunities.
“When I arrived, everything was closer and available to me. When I was inspired to paint that rainbow tree, quality watercolor was available to me.
“So I started to paint and have continued since.”
She thanks her mum for making the decision to move to the capital city.

Another of her paintings. She is still developing her skill as a painter.

“If it wasn’t for her determination to come to Port Moresby, I wouldn’t be who I am today in art and education.”
Elizabeth believes that everyone is created by God for a purpose and provided talents which is up to each individual to discover, develop and benefit from.
“All you need is yourself (putting) God first.”
Elizabeth believes that the art industry is yet to be developed to reach its maximum benefit for the nation and people involved in it.
She believes it can contribute more to the development of the tourism industry. She therefore urges the Government to give more recognition to artists and painters.
“I ask the authorities to make available or create a market that will help the industry to grow and encourage citizens who are into art but are struggling at the moment.”
Elizabeth knows she is obsessed.
“It has become a part of my life.”
She also wants to succeed in her education.
“I will still find time to develop my skills and knowledge in painting while in school.”