ARTIST STATEMENT
My journey of identity through the interconnectedness of traditional PNG and western culture has been expressed through the techniques of nerokomi, customary and alternate weaving techniques. The combination of symbolic ceramic forms and vessels with fibrous materials communicates my intercultural dialogue. The metaphor is extended through the meandering chicken wire expressing the Brisbane River. The silhouetted clay birds symbolize the native migratory Eastern Koel, who’s flight transgresses both cultures. Additionally, the vessels are a secondary formation of the installation which focuses on my feminine identity. They are totems of respect to the forgotten female PNG artisans of my heritage.
ARTWORK PROCESS
The work is a highly symbolic cultural piece that signifies the journey of identity through the interconnectedness of traditional PNG and western culture. Using the nerikomi combination of mixing three clays – black mid fire clay, buff trachyte clay and white porcelain, I created a plan to combine weaving and ceramic forms that communicate different cultural milestones. They use the meanderings of the Brisbane River as a trail represented with chicken wire. Additionally the three vessels communicate the intercultural dialogue of femininity. They recognize the female PNG artisans of my heritage. The feathers represent the migratory birds of PNG and Australia.
