HARRY NONA | 'Kazi Leman' | Acrylic on canvas

"Kazi Ieman' in the Kala Lagaw Ya language means 'child is born.'

The Baler shell (Alup shell) is the artwork's centre. It represents a modern and cultural representation of a baby in its mother's womb and how Torres Strait Islander women used this shell for bathing their babies.

The island mat in the background represents a generational use in a household. The babies born in the old days would lay on these mats after birth; this became their first bed.

The octopus holding the Baler shell and the baby represents a solid spiritual connection and bond between the parents and their baby.

The animals and sea creatures surrounding the baby are the totems that connect to its bloodline.

In the past, the Conch shell (Boo shell) was used for many things. Within this painting, it represents how islanders used to communicate and share news.

The waves between the boo shells represent a spiritual echo that sends a message of the baby's arrival."