Kim McKay AO, Director and CEO of the Australian Museum,
invites you to a media preview of Wansolmoana
in the new permanent Pasifika Gallery
Wansolmoana – meaning One Salt Ocean – is the new home for the AM’s Pasifika collection, one of the largest and most significant in the world. Wansolmoana features 143 objects from 19 Pacific countries including newly-commissioned objects by prominent Pacific Island artists and knowledge holders, musical instruments, canoe models, tattooing implements as well as multimedia and video works.
When: 9-10.30am, Thursday 12 October, 2023 (includes morning tea)
Where: Pasifika Gallery, Australian Museum, cnr of William St and College St, Sydney
Interview opportunities:
- Kim McMay AO, Director and CEO, Australian Museum
- Melissa Malu, Exhibition Curator and Manager, Pasifika Collections, Australian Museum
- Alasdair MacLeod, Chairman, and Michelle Gortan, CEO, Macdoch Foundation
- Pasifika Knowledge Holders and artists
Footage and photo opportunities:
- Pasifika cultural dance performance
- The Tokelauan canoe used in the 2014 climate change protests in Newcastle
- A rare Suru head-dress and a Fijian warlord’s ceremonial costume
RSVP: Claire Vince: claire.vince@australian.museum, 0468 726 910
Imogen Corlette: imogen.corlette@australian.museum. 0410 520 776
Key Facts:
The Tokelauan canoe, a Suru head-dress and a Fijian warlord’s ceremonial cloak will feature in the exhibition, Wansolmoana, opening Thurs 12 October in the new permanent Pasifika Gallery at the Australian Museum (AM).
Wansolmoana – meaning One Salt Ocean – showcases a selection from the AM’s world-leading Pasifika collection, together with newly commissioned objects by prominent Pacific Island artists and knowledge holders. It celebrates the rich history and traditions of the Pacific nations, past and present and Australia’s relationship with them.
About us:
The Australian Museum (AM) was founded in 1827 and is the nation’s first museum. It is internationally recognised as a natural science and culture institution focused on Australia and the Pacific. As custodian of more than 21.9 million objects and specimens, the AM is uniquely positioned to provide a greater understanding of the region through its scientific research, exhibitions, and public and education programs. Through the Australian Museum Research Institute (AMRI), the AM also plays a leading role in conserving Australia’s biodiversity through understanding the environmental impacts of climate change, potential security threats and invasive species.
Contact details:
Claire Vince: claire.vince@australian.museum, 0468 726 910
Imogen Corlette: imogen.corlette@australian.museum. 0410 520 776