Malu Mabaigal (Men of the Sea)

Malu Mabaigal (Men of the Sea) explores the deeply embodied relationship between the men of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait), the Arafura and Coral Seas.
It documents the remarkable synergy between the two balas (brothers) whose artwork brings it to life so vividly, artists Tipoti Nona and Jymahl Savage from Badu Island.

Whether in linoprint, monoprint or carved objects there is an almost forensic attention to detail in their work: like a researcher’s journal it bears witness to the intricacies of the world they inhabit, charting nature’s signals on land and sea.

This depth of attention is the hallmark of their life as Malu Mabaigal: people whose lives are indelibly defined by their relationship with the sea and their role as hunters and fishers of status in their community.

They are the men that ailan (island) families rely on to supply the culturally significant kaikai (food) for every community event; men who work with the ocean, their traditional knowledge, and skills to supply their family’s everyday needs.

Tipoti, 15 years older, trained Jymahl as a hunter as he does to many ailan boys. Over the years Jymahl was able to move up the dinghy, until eventually he mastered enough knowledge to sit alongside Tipoti and now they are each other’s preferred hunting partner – “We think with one mind” says Tipoti.