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Hefrani Barnes

Of both English and Rotuman heritage, Hefrani, whose name translates to “the Morningstar”- is a young self-taught visual, conceptual artist and illustrator. She is currently a student at International Secondary School in Suva. As passionate as she is creative, Hefrani has been involved in artistic activism from a young age. Her unique hand in painting and virtual art is inspired by artists such as Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso- all of which have influenced her contemporary style.
Hefrani also draws much inspiration from the infamous street artist Banksy-whose elaborate criticisms of societal injustices through artistic “vandalism” has moved Hefrani to construct various murals that could be seen around Suva. She lists creating the illustrations for the children’s book Elimondik by Brooke Takala as one of her most significant and meaningful works. She says she is inspired by the natural world, in particular the ocean and her creatures, its role in connecting the people and its effect on Pacific culture. Hefrani also dabbles in poetry and creative writing and very recently- animation. She seeks to build a future for herself using her talents for the arts.