Urapun Kai Buai is a revelation of rhythms - of the flow of natural energies, familial bloodlines and cultural lifeforce.

Many Torres Strait Islander artists, while reflecting a consensual vision of their culture through protocols that guard the nature of knowledge through consultation with elders and councils, create very different interpretations of life across this diverse community of peoples.

Island of origin, language, gender, relationships and region all flavour and influence the expression of ways of living and being.

Zagan Gud Aladhi (Star Constellation), one of the finely executed hand coloured linocuts captures the depth and complexity of understanding needed to appreciate and survive in an environment of intense beauty, but whose idyllic appearance runs only as deep as the sea’s surface.

(Star Constellation), one of the finely executed hand coloured linocuts captures the depth and complexity of understanding needed to appreciate and survive in an environment of intense beauty, but whose idyllic appearance runs only as deep as the sea’s surface.

The resonance of the integrated nature of humanity and nature emanates from groupings that embrace and symmetries that echo the innate values of balance, empathy and harmony in Mudhaw Warul (Sheltered Turtles behind the Reef).

In Abau (Noni Fruit) Missi’s keen eye for choosing when his subjects are better served through large scale visual narratives or a tightly focused gaze is evident.

(Noni Fruit) Missi’s keen eye for choosing when his subjects are better served through large scale visual narratives or a tightly focused gaze is evident.

In terms of specific understandings, in this case medicinal lore and wisdom, he spells out explicitly through his composition where the emphasis rests for continued well-being of culture.

On the surface, Sapur Ka Kanaik (Stalking the Flying Fox) delivers an anecdote of natural order with the elegant, suppressed motion of its serpentine subject on the hunt, but like the dense labyrinth of the mango leaves it traverses, art as metaphor disguises the endless lessons and skills contained within.

Missi’s intricate linocuts are a symphony of defined spaces and articulate line, interweaving knowledge, practice and the protection of profound continuity of spirit between the natural elements of Zenadh Kes (Torres Strait) and its peoples.

- Karen van Harskamp

Urapun Kai Buai (One Big Kin) By Billy Missi. Closes June 7. KickArts Lower Gallery, CoCA

 

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