Page 55 - Annual Review 2008

RESOuRCES / 55
Having grown up without knowledge of his own
Western Torres Strait styles of dhoeri (headdress) and
accustomed to seeing cardboard cut-outs worn by
dancers, George Nona decided to investigate these
Torres Strait icons. Researching books, photographic
archives and rock paintings, Nona discovered some 28
dhoeri – many of which have not been made for over 70
years – made specifically for war, and has revived the
practice of creating them. Each shows the hallmarks
of traditional dhoeri, with diamond designs disrupting
perfect white feathered manes.
George Nona / Kala Lagaw Ya people / Kukui Mabaigaw Dhoeri 2007 / Cane, bamboo, string
with natural pigment, beeswax, shell, eagle and cassowary feathers / Purchased 2008. The
Queensland Government’s Gallery of Modern Art Acquisitions Fund / Collection: Queensland
Art Gallery
GEORGE
NONA
Dhoeris
The larger sizes and more elaborate designs reflect a
hierarchy of warriors, consistent with military regalia
in all cultures. Nona has altered some elements,
making each dhoeri identifiably his own and creating
new interpretations in the spirit of the traditional
headdresses, now used for performance rather than
war. A group of dhoeris were shown in ‘Contemporary
Australia: Optimism’, 15 November to 22 February
2009, at GoMA.
* from Western Torres Strait