Mountain Meri - Mono Meri Enga

As a continuing tribute to the women of Papua New Guinea’s Highlands, this piece marks the first in my series dedicated to Engan women. Rich in varying shades of green and intricate patterns, this artwork reflects both the natural beauty and the complex realities of Enga Province.

Enga has long been affected by tribal conflicts—cycles of violence that have claimed countless lives. In these conflicts, women and children are often caught in the crossfire, their lives disrupted by senseless disputes. I often wonder what they carry in their hearts when peace is shattered—what thoughts linger as they watch their sons, brothers, husbands, and even small children experiencing the devastating effects of tribal violence.

Despite this, Engan women remain among the most resilient and determined individuals I’ve encountered. Their strength in the face of daily uncertainty is unwavering. They endure, they rebuild, and they continue to hope—for peace, for safety, for a future untouched by conflict.

In this artwork, I’ve used red along the edges to represent the bloodshed and trauma that has shadowed the province for generations—particularly the violence inflicted on women, often by men within these conflict zones. Bordering this, I introduced a sand tone as a nod to the traditional Engan sand paintings that mesmerised me as a child. This grounding layer connects my personal memories with the cultural legacy of the Highlands.

The dominant greens throughout the piece reflect the lush jungles, tropical rainforests, and towering mountains that define Enga’s powerful landscape. Amidst this, at the heart of the painting stands a woman adorned in traditional Engan dress. While wigs are not commonly worn by women across the province, certain tribes do carry this tradition, and I chose to incorporate this to honour their uniqueness.

Her body is adorned with kina shells, layered with gold leaf—symbolising not only the gold mines that play a key role in Enga’s economy but also the value she carries. Her worth is not just economic—it’s ancestral. She bears the stories of her people, tends the land of her forebears, and carries the legacy of those who came before her.

This piece is not just a portrait—it’s a statement. It’s about survival, identity, and honouring the quiet, powerful resilience of Engan women.

Dimensions:
150cm (h) x 100cm (w)

Medium:
Posca pen and acrylic on cotton duck canvas.