We are delighted to welcome the National Gallery of Australia as a participant of the WanBel global network.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of PNG independence the NGA has created the exhibition Bilong Papua New Guinea.

The NGA holds the largest collection of Papua New Guinea contemporary art outside the country. Each of the works selected for Bilong Papua New Guinea presents a story, reflecting on cultural heritage, historical moments, the influence of ancestors, Christianity, kastom, societal changes and new technologies.

In this exhibition, traditional styles and contemporary artistic practices merge in the works of artists such as Mathias Kauage, Gazellah Bruder, John Siune, and Yuriyal Bridgeman. Through their examination of the political and social contexts of post-independence Papua New Guinea, these artists have helped to mould a cohesive national identity, while shaping Papua New Guinea’s contemporary creative practices.

Bilong Papua New Guinea: 50 Years of Independence

13 Sep 2025 – 12 Apr 2026

https://nga.gov.au/exhibitions/bilong-papua-new-guinea/

The exhibition is accompanied by a wide range of talks tours and events. See our page Events for these and other events.