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linocut on paper
201.0 x 118.0 cm
2012.39
Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program by Alick Tipoti, 2012
Kuyku Garparthamai Mabaig means Headhunter. In this print I have depicted a Headhunter communicating with the spirits of his victims. Details of these particular practices are never shared with other people due to cultural beliefs and protocols. I have also identified the weapons of the Kuyku Garpathamai Mabaig; the Gagai (bow), Thaiyak (arrow), Gagauru (bow rope), Upi (bamboo beheading knife). Famous Headhunters were known to have several wives. In the top half of the Gagai, I have hidden three wives. When a Headhunter departs his island with his army, and heads off to do battle, his wives await his return. Sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn't. When it is past the time he has indicated he will return, he is considered dead. On short trips his wives place a Kukuwam flower in a Kubar (coconut shell) when the Kukwam dies, he is believed to be dead. Back in the time of the Headhunters, attacking and fighting skills were important when initiated.
The Cairns Art Gallery acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased persons in photographs, film or text.
