An Evolution of Teaching Art in Sāmoa: A Personal Journey—The History, Insights, Challenges, and Successes of Teaching Visual Art at the Tertiary Level

This article traces the history and evolution of art education in independent Sāmoa from the perspective of personal experience, while also considering numerical data. It discusses art as a discipline taught in Sāmoan secondary schools and focuses on the development of the creative arts at the tertiary level. The essay reflects on the history and challenges of teaching visual art in Sāmoa, including successes and setbacks. Also considered are the struggles for students pursuing visual art as a career interest in Sāmoa. Examples of works of art created at the Leulumoega Fou School of Fine Arts are included, as are pieces by current National University of Sāmoa art students.