PRESS RELEASE – Celebrating Australia’s First Nations cultures through public exhibition and launch of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags

Apia, SAMOA – The Australian High Commission is pleased to present ‘Evolution’, a public exhibition showcasing the art of mask making by Australia’s Torres Strait islanders.

Officially launched by Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Will Robinson, the exhibition is displayed along the Australian High Commission’s fencing on Beach Road.

The public exhibition is part of the Australian High Commission’s activities to mark National Aboriginals’ and Islanders’ Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week which celebrates and recognises the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Zenadh Kes (Torres Strait) is a network of islands located between Northern Australia and Papua New Guinea. The peoples of this area maintain vibrant artistic, spiritual, and cultural traditions.

The making and wearing of beautifully decorated masks is one of the region’s most distinctive traditions. While rooted in ancient protocols and spirituality, masks and mask making today are celebrated as expressions of artistic and cultural revival.

“This exhibition embodies the stories, the spirit, and the enduring connection of Torres Strait Islanders to their environment,” said His Excellency Mr Will Robinson. “We share a little bit of Torres Strait Islander cultures with Samoa through this exhibition to demonstrate the threads of connection that runs deep across the Pacific – across this vibrant moana we share together.”

The public exhibition is a partnership between the Australian Government, the National Museum of Australia, and the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags are now flying alongside the Australian flag at the Australian High Commission.

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SOURCE – Australian High Commission, Samoa