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Theradhayaw Sabi (Traditional Adoption Lore) V12

Ceremonies and rituals play a central role in Torres Strait kinship. They mark important life events, such as birth, initiation, and death, and strengthen community bonds. The Torres Strait kinship system assigns roles and responsibilities within the community. This includes obligations related to marriage, child-rearing, and land management. Traditional adoption in the Torres Strait involves a cultural practice where individuals or families within the community formally take on the responsibility of caring for and raising a child who is not their biological offspring. This practice is deeply rooted in Torres Strait Islander culture and has been a way of strengthening family and community bonds. Traditional adoption is guided by cultural protocols and often involves ceremonies to mark the occasion. It’s important to note that this practice is specific to the Torres Strait region and differs from Western adoption systems.

Art Centre notes: Stretched canvas: 120 x 80cm. The artwork is a monotype print, printed on Belgian linen. 

Artist: David Bosun

Printer: Dian Darmansjah

Printed at Northsite Print Studio, Cairns Oct 2023

 

 

Categories: Moa Arts

Name: David Bosun


Language: Kala Lagaw Ya, Kriol


Community: Kubin


Biography:

Torres Strait Island artist David Bosun grew up in a very sensitive cultural environment and from the age of four he practised traditional dancing and singing. He first became interested in art in grade six after participating in an art class at school.  David went to Thursday Island Secondary school and later moved to All Saints and St Gabriels Anglican college in Charters Towers, Queensland. During High School he was always in trouble for drawing in class instead of doing his work.

David has attended James Cook University and Cairns TAFE.  He travelled extensively internationally with the touring exhibition Gelam my Son.  He was also part of a delegation to Cambridge University and is believed to be part of the first people from the Torres Strait to examine the Haddon Collection of Torre Strait artefacts.  David has also attended a cultural exchange in Suva, Fiji.

David believes that both the future generations in the Torres Strait as well as the rest of the world need to be educated about the rich cultural heritage and distinctiveness of Torres Strait culture. He is striving to record and illustrate his ancestral beliefs & traditions through the visual and performing arts.


© the artist / art centre