Light from the Gaze
Asmat Art - part 5
Posted by Stephen (Canberra, Australia) on 7 June 2012 in Art & Design and Portfolio.
The figures and exotic rituals depicted here relate to the former Animist religion and its symbols. It is an influence that still shapes the style of Asmat art.
I am in the Asmat Museum of Culture and Progress in Agats. Here I found a good news story for their heritage of wood carving. Hopefully, this first rate exhibition will continue to receive the funding it needs. You can learn more about its colourful history here and here.
In October each year, the Museum hosts a competition for wood carvers and artists. The Museum also acquires some of the winning entries. This gives local artists a showcase for their work.
My thanks go to the Museum for allowing me to take the photos.
Yes - that is a crocodile you see to the right of frame. And it is not a carving. More on the big croc tomorrow - when I conclude my tour of the Asmat.
@Marie LC: Yes, a universal theme, you could say!
@Curly: We will get up close with the big croc tomorrow!
@grouser: Thanks, grouser. I bought directly from some of the market stalls in the village. As well as the statue I showed in part 1, I also got two carved heads and a couple of small crocodile shaped bowls. I would have liked to have bought a few items at the artifact shop - but no room in my luggage!
@mary: This is the museum.