Gub (four winds of Zenadh-Kes)
Artist
Joel Sam
(1977)
Date2011
Object number00051501
NameLinocut
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 610 x 805 mm
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionLinocut by Torres Strait Islander artist Joel Sam, representing the four winds of the Torres Strait (Zenadh-Kes) where the Indian Ocean meets the Pacific Ocean. The winds are depicted being blown out of the mouth of the spirit god Marrkai. Joel Sam's work explores weather patterns, cycles, and other forces of nature, as these are of a high cultural importance both in the present and the past.HistoryArtist Biography: Joel Sam's family lives in Bamaga and originates from Saibai Island. Born on Thursday Island, he currently lives in Cairns, having finished his art studies in 2005 with a Diploma of Art from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Visual Arts Course at the Tropical North Queensland TAFE. Since then he has been developing an art practice and technical skills in the medium of the linocut. Joel's artworks are inspired by his culture, and the images are of sea creatures that live in and around the Torres Strait, such as turtles, squid, the fish of the reef and the shells and corals of the Coral Sea. Joel is a regular exhibitor at KickArts, and Djumbunji Press is publishing several of his new prints.
His work is currently taking an exciting new direction. He is focusing on weather patterns, cycles, and occurrences, along with other forces of nature, as these are of a high cultural importance in both past and present days.
Artwork statement: This print represents the four winds of Zenadh-Kes (the Torres Strait), where the Indian Ocean meets the Pacific Ocean: Naigai (North), Zey (South), Sager (South-East), and Kuki (North-West). The winds are depicted being blown out of the mouth of the spirit god Marrkai.
