Now showing

Gallery of First Australians. Free.

Dhari a Krar: Headdresses and Masks from the Torres Strait, showcases a spectacular collection of masks and headdresses from the Torres Strait, currently on display in the Gallery of First Australians.

Dhari a Krar means 'headdresses and masks' in the western Torres Strait language of Kala Lagaw Ya. The exhibition brings together a diverse collection of masks, headdresses and dance objects dating from the mid-1800s to the present.

The exhibition highlights the continuing importance of masks and headdresses to Torres Strait people today. Torres Strait masks and headdresses are spectacular items, which have an instant appeal.

They provide a great entry point to understanding some of the history and ongoing cultural traditions of the different communities of the Torres Strait.

Audiences will be able to see the evolution of Torres Strait masks and headdresses in art, theatre and dance, how older pieces have inspired new works and how these cultural traditions are constantly developing and changing.

Highlights include a stunning triple hammerhead shark headdress by the artist Ken Thaiday Senior and a vivid Mawa witchdoctor mask made by the artist Allson Edrick Tabui. A number of rare headdresses and masks collected in the mid to late 1800s are also on show for the exhibition.

The exhibition was developed as a collaboration between the National Museum of Australia and the Cairns Regional Art Gallery.

Photo above: George Serras

Meet the makers

Rosie Barkus

James Eseli

Victor McGrath

Allson Edrick Tabuai

Kenneth Thaiday Snr

Alick Seriba Tipoti