Torosel - Defying Currents

Torosel - Defying CurrentsTurtles have always been one of my favourite animals to draw. This small piece captures a turtle, known as torosel in Tok Pisin, surrounded by the movement of the current. What begins as something so small on the shores eventually finds its way to the sea. It swims against the current, yet at times surrenders to it, trusting the rhythm of the ocean to guide it forward. There is something deeply powerful in that balance, resistance and trust existing

a symbol of hope

If their dreams deserve their attention

and the style we use to depict human figures

I used gold throughout the artwork to show how precious women are and to represent the important roles they play in our society

as the dancer embodies the power and protection of their ancestors

signifying the deep connection between her essence and the sea

The leaves over the patterns carried by the wind become symbols of change

they shared that the patterns on their faces were inspired by butterfly wings

serve as a visual ode to the rich tapestry of stories from the past and the dreams of a vibrant future she carries within her being

like many masks across PNG

This bird of Paradise is sometimes known as the Greater bird of Paradise

They are a source of protein and have been valued for centuries