‘Being a big bird, the pelican is seen throughout the year, whether it be the time of the fierce sager wind, the pelican still flies majestic. It is always seen on our island and around the Torres Strait Islands. It’s a beautiful, big bird that I always wanted as a pet. This was one of my first one-metre works. Within the pattern of squares, the three bars represent my three sons. On the bottom of the print is my other personal design, Kulis and Guthat, which is the coming and going of the tides. I like to tell my personal stories and life experiences in my work. The pelicans are the biggest birds in the Torres Strait Islands and they play a big part in our life and traditions.’ – Artist's statement

Joseph Au
A master carver of wood and shell working on Badu Island, Torres Strait, Joseph Au (Kala Lagaw Ya people) transferred these skills to lino cut printmaking. Au is one of the founders of the Badu Art Centre and is currently the Board’s Chair. As a senior artist, he pursues his practice whilst also assisting, guiding and mentoring emerging artists at the Centre. His work is held in collections nationally.