The highly anticipated 150ZK Truth Telling: Coming of the Light 150 Years Exhibition (150ZK) was officially opened at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre on 17 June 2021.

Commemorating 150 years since Coming of the Light, the exhibition is the result of a successful collaborative curatorial project with Torres Strait Artists, Badu Arts, Erub Arts and Moa Arts. It investigates the impact of the London Missionary Society and Christianity on Torres Strait Islanders and our way of life.

After a moving Ailan hymn by the Kulkalgaw Choir, an official opening by TSRA Board Member for Mabuyag and Culture, Art and Heritage Programme Portfolio Member; Mr Cygnet Repu, keynotes by Mr Kapua Gutchen Senior, Mr Gabriel Bani and Mr Jimmy K Thaiday and a stunning performances by Boigu Island’s Malu Kiai Dance Team, the gallery opened, and visitors explored the exhibition for the first time.

Torres Strait Regional Authority Chairperson Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said “the Torres Strait Regional Authority is proud of the iconic exhibition.”

“Coming of the Light is an annual milestone event for Torres Strait Islanders and this exhibition infused culture, art and heritage with religion to explore concepts of identity, faith and tradition,” Chair Stephen explained.

“It is important that as Torres Strait Islanders, we reflect on our history and what has impacted on our culture and Ailan Kastom. One of these major impacts is the Coming of the Light and this exhibition has allowed our people to observe history and reflect on their own relationship with Christianity,”

“I commend the Gab Titui Cultural Centre team, the Artists and Art Centres who have contributed to the exhibition.”

The 150ZK Truth Telling: Coming of the Light 150 Years Exhibition will be on show at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre until 21 August 2021.

Exhibition catalogues, merchandise and memorabilia are now available to purchase in store.

Image credits: Photography by Liberty Seekee