Morola Haria - Oa Laea (Shark)

Morola Harai is the name of a particular shapeshifting spirit. The story of Morola Harai finds its origins in the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea and has many different variations depending on the storyteller.

One fascinating aspect of Morola Harai is its ability to transform into a shark, an animal considered sacred in many coastal villages throughout PNG. Sharks are revered in these communities. They are seen as symbols of abundance and are often associated with love and protection. Many tribes believe that sharks carry the spirits of ancestors and act as guardians of the reef, keeping bad omens away from the coastline.

This piece features the colours of the Gulf Province, the blues of the ocean, the earthy tones of the riverbanks, and the sands of the coastline. Some of the patterns are my own creative designs, while others are inspired by traditional Papua New Guinean tribal markings. The shark is shown swimming out of the river and into the open ocean, leaving behind a trail of flower-like waves. These flowers symbolise life, provision, and the beauty of the shark and the places it protects.

Dimensions:
76cm (h) x 153cm (w)

Medium:
Posca pen and acrylic on 500gsm linen canvas.