SKIN: Torres Strait - Joshua Bonson

Badu is an island in the Torres Strait, where my Great Grandmother Patimah Ahmat was born.
I have been told many stories about my Nanna and her life spent on Badu Island. Her eldest son, Donald Bonson is my grandfather and during my life he shared stories of the country, the waters and the sea creatures that inhabit the area. Following my journey to the Torres Strait this year I created this work in celebration of my family.
Thick serrations of paint are spread lovingly across the canvas, dancing as the tide comes in. Hints of burnt orange, salmon, shades of ochre and emerald green reflect the details of rocks and sand. Mars Violet applied by hand completes the work creating movement and texture portraying the landscape and oceans that are uniquely Badu Island. The armoured skin of the salt water crocodile, my totem can be seen and felt throughout the work.
Even though I live in the Northern Territory, part of my heritage comes from the Torres Strait and creating this work represents my skins affiliations and my place there.
Everything is connected, the land, the water and us. Like the Crocodile we are saltwater people with an ancient lineage.
Become part of the work... Run your fingers across the surface... Joshua Bonson