‘Awakening: Stories from the Torres Strait’
25 June – 2 October 2011

Torres Strait Islanders believe that objects are pervaded by Spirits of our ancestors and the natural world. ‘Awakening’ is the act of reconnecting that stirs the spirit between the people and the object.

The exhibition will showcase objects of extraordinary beauty and significance from Queensland Museum's extensive Torres Strait collection and will light a path through life, culture and custom.

This collection features ceremonial masks, objects collected by pioneering anthropologist A.C. Haddon as well as internationally recognised archaeological findings, all of which link Torres Strait Islanders to the land, the sea, the song and the story of Torres Strait Islander kastom.

Exploring a rich and diverse culture across three exhibition themes People, Place, and Purpose, Awakening will connect the essence of Torres Strait Islander stories, culture and community to a broader audience.

At the core of the exhibition Awakening will explore why and how museums collect cultural objects and stories.

The visitor will be guided to understand that objects do not stand on their own, but are enmeshed in a web of cultural meaning. Collected items that have been removed from their cultural context can only represent one part of the whole.

Awakening will provide a unique insight to the rich culture of the Torres Strait.

For more information about this exhibition visit www.southbank.qm.qld.gov.au