ANDREW PASSI SNR | 'Beizam Tirig (sacred shark jaw mask)' | Wood / cane / feathers / coconut husk

"The Zogo Beizam Tirig were worn during the sacred ceremony of Malo-Bomai cult. The sacred Beizam Tirig characterise strength and aggression of the hammer head and tiger sharks. Each individual rites co-ordinate with the sacred institution of Malo-Bomai cult."

“My name is Andrew Passi (snr) and I am from Mer, or Murray Island in eastern Torres Strait and we are first tropical Island where the Great Barrier Reef begin it's 2,000+ km journey east to the Queensland coastline.

A dream of any artist is to be influenced by the beauty of nature. I was raised amongst traditional artists who were self-taught through interaction with others and their observations of tradition and customs.

My artwork is a collection of variety of resources and a collection of experiences.

From a young age I created a variety of artworks such as sketches, carvings and craft work, but most of all I was influenced by Elder artist Mr Segar Passi to take-up oil painting. My artworks are displayed at Townsville art gallery and Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Thursday Island.” – Andrew Passi

ANDREW PASSI SNR | 'Beizam Tirig (sacred shark jaw mask)' | 2024 | Wood / cane / feathers / coconut husk | 45 (h) x 27 (w) x 49 (d) cm