May 29, 2024
For #WorldDugongDay:
Alick Tipoti (Torres Strait: Badhu Island, Kala Lagaw Ya, b.1975)
Kisay Dhangal, 2016
Sculpture, bronze with mother-of-pearl inlay
194 × 202 × 102 cm, 280 kg
Australian National Maritime Museum 00054952
"Inscribed with traditional motifs and pearl shell, Kisay Dhangal reflects the life cycle and feeding patterns of the dhangal (dugong) in the Torres Strait Islands. The dhangal is captured in the position known as San Tidayk, in Kala Lagaw Ya language which marks the moment the mammal flips its tail to dive down and graze on the sea grass beds. A marine dust trail between the tail and figure of the moon emphasize how lunar cycles determine dugong feeding and mating habits."
