Mariw Minaral (Spiritual Patterns) Opens November
Alick Tipoti is arguably the most important artist of his generation from Zendah Kes (the Torres Strait Islands), and for the first time we are presenting a retrospective of his works.
A CULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ARTIST, Alick Tipoti is highly respected for his work in regenerating cultural knowledge and language. Guided by the traditional cultural practices of his people, Tipoti’s storytelling encompasses traditional cosmology, marine environments and ocean conservation – focusing on what it means to be a sea person. Tipoti is revered for his sophistication and ability to spread his concerns and messages through his art. Among the works on display will be the sculptures Kisay Dhangal (Moonlight Dugong), made from bronze and pearl shell, and Kaygasiw Usul – which means ‘the trail of dust underwater created by the shovel nose shark’ in the language of the Maluyligal People. Also on show will be some of Tipoti’s large-scale linocut prints, whose intricate detail highlights the artist’s skill. Many of these works will be on display for the first time; others have featured in previous exhibitions at the museum, such as Munuk Zugabal (Saltwater Songlines) in 2016. The exhibition comprises works from our own collection, many of which have been purchased through generous donations.
Kisay Dhangal (Moonlight Dugong), by Alick Tipoti. Image Andrew Frolows/ANMM
