Friendships enrich our lives, offering joy, support and a sense of belonging.
Art Centre notes:
Paper size: 53 x 39cm
The artwork is a ‘pochoir’ print, or monoprint printed on Hahnamule paper 100% cotton rag with strong archival properties.
Artist: Helen-Joy Tomsana
Printer: Dian Darmansjah
Printed: Moa Arts Studio, Jan 2025
Name: Helen-Joy Tomsana
Language: Kala Lagaw Ya, Creole
Community: Kubin
Biography:
I live and grew up on Kubin Village Mua Island in the Torres Strait.
Torres Strait is also known Zenadh Kes, is a strait between Australia and the Melanesian Island of New Guinea.
Through my grandparents I am a descendant of Wakaid and Argun Tribe, I am an eldest sister to 8 siblings. English was not my first language; I grew up speaking creole and living in the environment of my elders who spoke the language of Kala Lagau Ya (KLY).
Growing up on Kubin I was always learning from our elders about cultural practices such as island dancing, singing, hunting, gardening, cooking and way of life. Inspired by our elders one thing most common was Respect.
My hobby and interest are fishing, camping and family time. I love to fishing and go on outings and very much love spending time around Families.
New to art at aged 34 now a mum of 6, inspired to further my skills and develop into art practice from the knowledge of my ancestors to put pen to paper.
A quote I like to remind myself. “Every Artist was first an Amateur”.
Malu Thumayawaik The mask in the artwork represents the profound concerns of my ancestors regarding the exploitation of our marine environment, driven by climate change and pollution. For centuries since creation, Indigenous peoples have possessed Read more…
Malu Thumayawaik The mask in the artwork represents the profound concerns of my ancestors regarding the exploitation of our marine environment, driven by climate change and pollution. For centuries since creation, Indigenous peoples have possessed Read more…
Malu Thumayawaik The mask in the artwork represents the profound concerns of my ancestors regarding the exploitation of our marine environment, driven by climate change and pollution. For centuries since creation, Indigenous peoples have possessed Read more…