For Malie native Pene Loi, 35, art is life. It has become a source of income and he believes that when you do something which you love, you do it best.

He is currently employed at the Manamea Art Studio. 

"When I was a student at Avele College, my artistic career had its debut. Lalovai Peseta accompanied me, and he was the one who encouraged me to pursue my artistic ambition," said Loi. 

Loi is a father of two children, and his wife stays at home to assist him. He puts food on the table and meets his family's necessities through his art.

He collaborates with artist Vaiavii Tofilau. They have collaborated with Lalovai to support them in following their goals and to share ideas with them so they can write, paint, and carve. 

Lalovai Peseta owns the Manamea Art Studio, which was established in 2014. 

"After graduating from college in 2007, I stayed at home and began working independently on my elei while Vaiavii enrolled in the Leulumoega School of Fine Arts to further her education in the arts," said Loi.

When Lalovai first launched his art studio in 2014, he invited Loi to work with him. Unlike the other artists who attended the Leulumoega School of Fine Arts, Loi only attended college. 

"I have always looked up to Lalovai, and now that I am working with him, all of my talent and my creations come from him," Loi remarked.

"So, from the opening of the art studio until now, I have been employed at Manamea for 10 years."

The painting at the Faleolo International Airport was Lalovai’s idea. It is about culture and time. The artists wanted to bring culture and tradition into the artwork greeting international travellers. 

Loi encourages young artists to keep pursuing their dreams.