The hammerhead shark in my language is called Kurrs. The hammerhead is significant to me because it is my totem, my childhood memories and upbringing on Iama is always associated with this animal. When ghost nets are entangled on the reef bed, this creates an invisible trap for all marine life, great and small. As depicted in this artwork, a hammerhead is caught in a ghost net trapped around a bommie on the sea floor.
Name: Jimmy John Thaiday
Language: Torres Strait, Creole
Community: Darnley Island
Biography:
I grew up on Yam Island and moved to Darnley Island (Erub). My partner is from Erub and I have family here as well. I have always loved to draw, its something that comes naturally. I also enjoy fishing and walking on the reef. My artwork gives me the opportunity to express the things that are important to me, my identity and culture. Currently I am working with ghostnet and creating three dimensional work.
Kebi Neur The turtle is significant to the people of Erub both as a tribal totem and as a traditional source of food for feastings and celebrations. A number of varieties of turtles nest and Read more…
Ami A variety of rays are found around our island home, from the shallow waters of the shoreline to the reefs and deeper waters. This ray has been created by stitching reclaimed fishing net, rope Read more…