The aim of the Oceanic Art Society is to further the understanding and appreciation of Oceanic art. The focus is on traditional tribal art including contemporary art of the indigenous people of Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia and Australasia

Activities

Regular presentations and seminars throughout the year. These draw from lectures by international speakers and local leading authorities, illustrated talks by field collectors, film screenings presented by their makers, and presentations by curators of art gallery and museum exhibitions.

Quarterly Journal. This illustrated publication features international Oceanic art news, editorial pieces, member articles, book reviews, seminar reports, museum reviews, gallery and auction news, and information on OAS events.

OAS Forum. A two/three day symposium, hosted by major institutions, including seminars, access to collection material not on public display, museum tours and social functions. There have been nine to date held in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide. In 2020, OAS celebrates its 25th anniversary with a Forum in Melbourne.

Sydney Oceanic Art Fair (SOAF).  Initiated in 1997, this popular event has been held in various venues in Sydney. Since 2017, the historical National Art School (NAS) in Darlinghurst welcomes a much expanded  iteration of the Fair with lectures.

Events and Publications. The Society has presented exhibitions, and courses, often held jointly with other institutions, and drawing on members’ expertise, collection material and passion. Publications include the book “Shields of Melanesia” and exhibition catalogues.

JOIN US. The Society welcomes anyone with an interest in Oceanic art. Our membership is international and includes collectors, academics, artists, students, art dealers and museum professionals.

Committee 2021

Officers :

Bill Rathmell : President

Crispin Howarth : Vice-President

Treasurer : Rita Uechtritz

Public Officer : David Welch

Members :

Irene Ashburn, Geoff Carey, Margaret Cassidy, Jim Elmslie, Pierre Laffont, Jerry Liew, Warwick Majcher, Suzanne Pilj, Noelle Rathmell-Stiels, Krisztina Turza.

Donors

Todd Barlin (Sydney), Chris Boylan (Sydney), Robin Hodgson (Sydney), Doug Mayhew (Paris)

OAS actively seeks articles and photographs of interest for the Journal and website,  and requests your participation. 

Please submit to :  [email protected]

Opinions in signed articles are those of each author and not necessarily those of the OAS, and spelling variations of some words may be found as they reflect global differences.

OAS acknowledges all Pacific and Aboriginal artists, past and present.