Billy Missi'n Wakain Thamai Cultural Tour with Uncle Brian Whap

Join us for a cultural tour of Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai in kuril dhagun with Uncle Brian Whap, Torres Strait Islander Elder and cultural educator.

About the exhibition:

Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai is a profound exhibition honouring the late Torres Strait Islander artist Billy Missi (1970-2012).

Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai brings together 26 of the artist’s most significant and iconic artworks, including rare and never-before-exhibited monoprints, etchings, and linoprints from Djumbunji Fine Art Press and private collections. Curated by Dr Russell Milledge, this retrospective was developed in close consultation with the Billy Missi Estate, family members and friends, highlighting Missi’s critical role in the emergence of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) printmaking as a contemporary art form.

The Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai exhibition honours Missi’s artistic legacy and his dedication to maintaining the language and culture of his people. The bilingual exhibition features diverse forms of printmaking and a film, presenting an immersive experience into contemporary Torres Strait Islander culture and customs. Audiences will gain a deep appreciation for Missi’s work, reflecting his way of life, traditions, and enduring legacy.

Billy Missi was born on Mabuiag Island and was deeply influenced by the storytelling, song, and dance traditions of his Wagadagam Tribe. Beginning in earnest in the 1990s, his artistic journey combined traditional carving techniques with modern linocut methods, creating a unique aesthetic that earned international recognition before his passing in 2012.

Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai is an exhibition developed by NorthSite Contemporary Arts (Gimuy/Cairns) and touring Australia in partnership with Gab Titui Cultural Centre/Torres Strait Regional Authority (Waiben/Thursday Island) and Museums & Galleries Queensland. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program.

Where: Meet at the entrance to kuril dhagun, level 1, State Library of Queensland.

Please note: There is no need to bring a printed ticket, instead when you arrive your name will be checked off on a registration list. The exhibition is accessible, but should you have any questions please contact [email protected].

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Host or Publisher State Library of Queensland