Baidam Tulu (Wattle Tree), 2011
The harpoon is a significant tool in the skilled and often dangerous pursuit of Dugong and Turtle in the waters of the Torres Strait where this hunting is allowed for cultural purposes as is our tradition.
The harpoon can be made from various hardwoods but the preferred source as taught by our forefathers is the Baidam Tulu – a native species of wattle which grows on Mua Island. Depicted within my minaral (patterns and design) are a Dugong, Turtle, two turtle shell masks used to emphasise the cultural significance of the Baidam Tulu. Also revealed is my totem, the Shovel-nosed Shark.
PRINTMAKER: Andrew Sinclair and the artist
