As we prepare for the 50th anniversary of independence of Papua New Guinea, this edition of the Journal focuses on this important milestone in the history of Australia’s nearest neighbour with such an intertwined history.
This edition includes some important new scholarship on the artists of Papua New Guinea with Pacific Curator at the National Gallery of Australia, Crispin Howarth, writing in some detail on some of the many highlights of the upcoming Bilong Papua New Guinea: 50 Years of Independence exhibition opening on 13 September. There will be activities across Canberra’s national institutions including the NGA on this opening day of the exhibition, encouraging us all to visit.
Susan Cochrane has provided an overview on her recent encounters with contemporary Papua New Guinea art while David Ferguson has provided some novel research on A Curious Portrait Carving Attributed to the Kiwai Area. John Greenshields has also reviewed Hamish McDonald’s recent book Melanesia: Travels in Black Oceania.
Sadly, we farewell Robin Hodgson with an obituary from her daughter Amanda and tributes from Beth Pryce and Bill Rathmell highlighting how central Robin was to the continued operations of the OAS for many years.
Join us in Canberra on 14 and 15 November 2025 as the OAS hosts the thirteenth Oceanic Art Forum at the National Gallery of Australia in conjunction with the exhibition Bilong Papua New Guinea: Reflecting on 50 years of independence.
Margaret Cassidy
Kalam people, Shield early to mid 20th century. Schrader Ranges, Madang Province, Papua New Guinea. Wood, pigment, cane. Purchased 1969 69.44. Courtesy the National Gallery of Australia.
