No.1 Neighbour: Art in Papua New Guinea 1956-2016

124 №1 NEIGHBOUR FROM HERE As they wove, the women asked the spirit mamas to also increase the size of their bilum, so it could be completed quickly. They spoke, sang and hummed. Sometimes, this was in recite tones, too. What I’ve described is a traditional bilum twister and weaver. A modern, commercial weaver creates bilum to supply to customers — they don’t weave in chants or rhythms. It is my birthright to weave both traditionally and commercially. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THE ROLE OF CULTURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN YOUR WORK? Florence Jaukae-Kamel Culture is a pattern of knowledge, belief and behaviour that relies on transmitting knowledge to succeeding generations. This includes customary beliefs and shared attitudes, values, goals and practices. I want to lead and create a strong, safe environment for bilum weaving. Bilum is both an important form of cultural heritage and an indigenous art form. Bilum‑making includes individual and community histories, as well as age-old traditions. It is not a luxury; it plays an important role in everyday life, often boosting the prospects of poor and disadvantaged communities. Respecting each other and supporting each other keeps the environment strong and safe. I continue to build the reputation of bilum based on respect and trust. Taloi Havini As indigenous people, we are still living on our customary land. We are fully aware of our (limited) resources and are reminded constantly — even more so when we are placed in positions of survival — that we have to defend and protect our land. Outside economic interests have revealed how strong our indigenous belief systems remain. This is significant, because within our own Hakö culture, we have existing complex economic and governance systems that have played a major role in how we navigate new global systems.