This Suspension Hook was created by an artist of the Iatmul culture of the Sepik River region in Papa New Guinea. Suspension hooks are used by many different cultures of the Sepik River region, primarily to keep baskets of food suspended above the ground and away from moisture, insects, and rodents. In addition, the hooks may also be used to suspend anything that needs to be … [Read more...] about Iatmul Suspension Hook: Researched and Conserved by David Wright
Traditional Fijian woven mats serve as an important part of Fijian identity. Female artisans are taught to make the traditional woven mats from a young age, and finely woven mats are displayed as a source of pride in the household. Simple, practical versions of woven mats are laid over the floors of Fijian homes to serve as rugs, while more elaborate versions of the mats, … [Read more...] about Fijian Sleeping Mat: Researched and Conserved by Nicole Paden
Tapa cloth is a type of traditional Oceanic fabric that is made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree. The type of tapa cloth that is made in the Fijian Islands is specifically called masi, and this cloth is decorated using natural dyes and stencils to create intricate, meaningful patterns. High-quality masi may also be cooked to make the set the designs and make them … [Read more...] about Fijian Tapa Cloth: Researched and Conserved by Raegan Cash
BEFORE CONSERVATION AFTER CONSERVATION The art of the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea revolves heavily around men’s societies and their associated ceremonies and initiations. Sepik River religions involve ancestor worship, and many of the masks produced in this region represent either mythological or ancestral spirits, which are believed to provide aid in warfare … [Read more...] about Turtle Shell Basketry Mask: Researched and Conserved by Marissa Ewing