Zugubal

Artist Alick Tipoti (1975)

Date2006

Object number00054665

NameLinocut

MediumLinocut print on paper.

DimensionsOverall: 1020 × 2205 mm
Image: 810 × 2000 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with funds from the Sid Faithfull and Christine Sadler program supporting Contemporary Indigenous Maritime Heritage in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait Islands through the ANMM Foundation

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DescriptionA single block vinyl cut in black ink by Alick Tipoti titled 'Zugubal'. Contemporary Torres Strait Island image depicting traditional knowledge using the 'gul' or canoe as the key symbolic vessel that connects the cosmology. Tipoti indicates different phases of the moon and star constellations used for celestial navigation. Two great Zugubal ancestors, Thagai and Kang guide Zugubal in their canoe. Thagai is embedded in the pattern, his left hand holding the spears is the Southern Cross. Thagai's right hand is the constellation of Corvus.HistoryThrough his intricate images, songs and dances, Alick Tipoti tells the stories of his country. He carefully interprets the cultural history of Kala Lagaw Ya, the spiritual ancestors and their totems. By sharing these with views he is able to educate a wider audience and promote an understanding of general ancient knowledge and the practices of his people. Tipoti is one of the few people today who speaks ther traditional language of Kala Lagaw Ya fluently and this is the basis of his work. He understands his ancestral narratives and his work is seen as cultural document with historical and contemporary references. It is viewed as an acknowledgement and shared responsibility for Zendah Kes. This image illustrates how the 'gul' or canoe acts as a key symbol of connectivity in Zendah Kes cosmology. It is a symbolic vessel for navigating all the cycles of the land, sea and sky and spiritual life. Canoes maintain the Islanders seafaring lifestyle, with giant trees required for the hulls sourced from the east coast of Papua New Guinea in return for trade in skulls and shells. SignificanceThrough his work, Alick Tipoti is able to share and educate a wider audience general ancient knowledge about Torres Strait Islander culture. Through contemporary methods and images, he is able to continue Torres Strait Islander cultural practices, songs and stories.