Welcome
“Vale nei Degei” which translates to “House of Degei” is a community museum that houses stories, essays, art and images that have encompassed everyday lives of Fijians over several decades.
We wanted this website to be a safe haven for our peoples to navigate through, as we are entering a new era of young pasifika people yearning to learn more about their ancestral lands.
Vale nei Degei, is a name derived from the oral histories of itaukei (indigenous) culture. "Degei" a snakegod in indigenous oral histories, and the origin of all things that is Viti (Fiji) and "vale" which translates to "house".
This website has been a labour of love, and we hope that you enjoy the content and works that we have archived throughout the last several months.
Vinaka Vakalevu (Thank you)
Exhibitions
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The Legends of the Cannibal Isles
The Cannibal Isles: Viti (Fiji) an island now renowned for their booming tourism industry, paradise terrain and friendly smiles, was once an island feared by early explorers for their war and or religious practices of cannibalism.
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Clay Diaries
Indigenous Fijian Pottery and its impact in shaping Fijian culture. From its historical Lapita origins, its prevalence in Pacific trading chains and its current status in contemporary Fiji and tourism.
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The Snake's Trove
This collection delves into the history of iTaukei (indigenous) veiqia (tattooing). This exhibition is meant to explore how the art of tattooing has contributed to the identity of indigenous Fijian women.
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Death in Paradise: Rotuma and Death
Exploring the Rotuman practices of death and their oral histories behind their rituals and beliefs surrounding their funeral practices.