Sunward Hope - Pikinini Bilong Tumoro

Introducing Sunward Hope

·       Sunward: The term "sunward" indicates a movement or gaze directed towards the sun. The child and the bird of paradise are both oriented towards the sun, which symbolizes the future, hope, and the possibility of renewal. This direction towards the sun suggests a purposeful, hopeful journey towards something greater—towards light, growth, and positive change.

·       Hope: Hope is central theme in this artwork. Despite the challenges and uncertainties faced by Papua New Guinea, the child’s innocent gaze towards the sun embodies a deep, intrinsic hope for a better future. The sun, in this context, is not just a celestial body but a symbol of the possibilities that lie ahead—a beacon that guides and inspires.

When we talk about the future of Papua New Guinea, what are we really discussing? Is it the infrastructure we aspire to build, the governance we hope to improve, or the economic growth we seek to achieve? These are important, but they often lead us into a system that is, at its core, unhealthy and corrupt. A system where, to survive, one might have to become part of the very problem they once wanted to change. It’s a bitter irony—fighting corruption sometimes leads to its spread, like a cancer growing within the fabric of our society.

But perhaps, the more pressing question is not "what" the future holds, but "who" will shape it. The answer is simple yet profound: the children. They are the embodiment of hope, the carriers of potential, and the architects of tomorrow. The future of Papua New Guinea is uncertain, shadowed by the complexities of its current societal structure. Some may argue that the future is bright, but is it truly? Or is this brightness just the light we hold onto in the darkness, as the harsh realities of today continue to weigh us down?

The innocence of a child’s future—how often do we confront the uncomfortable truths that come with it? In Papua New Guinea, this notion is tangled with both hope and struggle. Who do we really mean when we speak of the "children of Papua New Guinea"? Are we referring to the grown men in offices, or their children? Or are we talking about the countless nameless children who live in the villages, the towns, and the cities, each with their own dreams and fears?

In this painting, a child gazes up at the sun. There is a deep connection between the child and the sun; they mirror each other, borrowing and reflecting colors that symbolize life and energy. The colors of Papua New Guinea—bold reds, blacks, and yellows—infuse the artwork, grounding it in the identity of the nation. But why does this child look to the sun? What draws their gaze?

The sun in this artwork is more than just a symbol—it’s a promise. It represents hope, renewal, and the possibility of a new day. The sun, which gives life to our land, enables the plants to grow, the air we breathe, and the cycle of life to continue. It is a beacon of what could be—a future full of potential.

In the background, the iconic bird of paradise, a symbol of national pride, also faces the sun. This bird, revered for its beauty and strength, is a constant reminder of Papua New Guinea’s resilience and spirit. It stands as a guardian of the future, soaring towards the light, much like the aspirations of the nation’s children. Together, the child and the bird of paradise represent the interconnectedness of nature, culture, and the promise of a brighter future.

This little Papua New Guinean child, looking towards the sun, embodies the hope for the future. The sun represents the future of Papua New Guinea—a future that remains bright despite the shadows cast by present challenges. But who is this child? Is this child a stand-in for all children, a representation of the adults who once were children, or a symbol of the generations yet to come?

The interpretation is yours. This child could be anyone—a child in a remote village, a student in a city, or a young leader yet to rise. In this sense, the child is a universal symbol, representing the future of Papua New Guinea itself. A child, in their innocence and potential, is the very essence of what the future holds. As they look towards the sun, they are looking towards a future that, despite its uncertainties, holds the promise of a new day, a new beginning, and a chance to create a brighter, more just world.

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

Medium: Sharpie Markers, Posca Pens, Acrylic Paint, Graphite Pencil and Varnish. 

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