Mathias Kauage (1944-2003): Collection of paintings, drawings and body accessories, Papua New Guinean artist, 1980s

Brief description

This small, Mathias Kauage Collection includes 10 paintings and prints, as well as 10 body accessories and ornaments used by the prominent Papua New Guinean artist in the 1980s.

Full description

Paintings, prints and drawings by the Papua New Guinean artist Mathias Kauage are in galleries in Europe, USA, the Pacific and Australia. This small, Mathias Kauage Collection includes 10 paintings and prints, as well as 10 body accessories and ornaments used by the prominent Papua New Guinean artist in the 1980s. Kauage was born in the remote highlands of Papua New Guinea. He moved to the capital, Port Moresby, where in 1969 he was inspired to become an artist while viewing the first exhibition by fellow countryman Timothy Akis. Kauage became a professional artist in the 1970s, working in acrylics, metalwork, drawing and printing. He is credited for developing a distinctive Papua New Guinean contemporary style. In 1987 the Australian Museum sponsored Kauage to come to Australia to create an artwork for its collection. Staying with his former teacher Georgina Beier, and mentor, Ulli Beier, Kauage painted a series of images on the life of Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Sir Iambakey Okuk, who had died the previous year. Kauage felt a bond with Okuk, his countryman, a man born in the same Chimbu Province. Kauage's subjects include motor cycles, aeroplanes, women at the disco and even Sydney's Luna Park. He is, at times, political and at other times whimsical in his choice of subjects and expressions. His art has inspired a younger generation of artists to follow in his footsteps, including his three sons. Kauage was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1997 in recognition of his significant achievements.