Kuyku Garpathamai Mabaig

Artist Alick Tipoti (1975)

Date2007

Object number00055482

NameLinoprint

MediumInk on paper.

DimensionsImage: 2010 × 1180 mm
Overall: 2240 × 1400 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by Alick Tipoti

Terms

DescriptionLinoprint by artist Alick Tipoti titled 'Kuyku Garpathamai Mabaig'. The man is a Kuyku Garpathamai Mabaig or headhunter, and he is communicating with the spirits of his victims whose skull he holds in his hand. The weapons depicted on the right are a Gagai (bow), Thaiyak (arrow), Gagauru (bow rope), Upi (bamboo beheading knife).HistoryAlick Tipoti is guided in his work by the traditional cultural practices of his people, he sees his responsibility to document the stories, genealogies, songs, and other aspects of his culture so that it is available for future generations to learn, understand and practice. Of this print Tipoti said "Kuyku Garparthamai Mabaig means Headhunter. In this print I have depicted a Headhunter communicating with the spirits of his victims. Details of these particular practices are never shared with other people due to cultural beliefs and protocols. I have also identified the weapons of the Kuyku Garpathamai Mabaig; the Gagai (bow), Thaiyak (arrow), Gagauru (bow rope), Upi (bamboo beheading knife). Famous Headhunters were known to have several wives. In the top half of the Gagai, I have hidden three wives. When a Headhunter departs his island with his army, and heads off to do battle, his wives await his return. Sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn't. When it is past the time he has indicated he will return, he is considered dead. On short trips his wives place a Kukuwam flower in a Kubar (coconut shell) when the Kukwam dies, he is believed to be dead. Back in the time of the Headhunters, attacking and fighting skills were important when initiated." SignificanceWith Tipoti's depiction of an ancient headhunter warrior he uses his art to show important unique and historical aspects of Torres Strait Islander cultural practices. Headhunting was particularly significant as it had a high spiritual and social value and successful warriors were highly esteemed.