Saibai artist and first-time entrant Conwell Nathan Tabuai has won the 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award for his “striking” piece Boegi (Walking Stick).

Boegi was selected from 37 works by First Nations artists across the Torres Strait, including Northern Peninsula Area communities of Bamaga and Seisia.

Crafted from red silky oak wood, its deep homage and respect to Elders impressed Principal Judge Teho Ropeyarn and his Cultural Advisors Aunty Enid Tom, Mr Fred Peters and Mr John Tabo.

In his judge’s comments, artist-curator Teho Ropeyarn praised the work as a symbol of power, knowledge and status.

“Boegi is striking in its appearance and concept,” Mr Ropeyarn said.

“It reminds us that our Elders are central to all of life’s happenings in a world where society, values and customs are changing dramatically.

“I cherish this work as it becomes a marker, a lifeforce for the future and in essence, a lifeforce to support Elders in their walk today.”

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson George Nona congratulated Mr Tabuai on his achievement, acknowledging the detail and symbolism captured in Boegi.

“Our Elders are knowledge-keepers, teachers and cultural beacons who have walked our paths before us,” Mr Nona said.

“This symbolism is evident in Boegi, complete with the strength and status of the powerful koedal (crocodile) etched as its handle.

“Mr Tabuai’s vision for his winning artwork is inspirational and I thank him for dedicating this work to the wisdom of our Elders.”

In accepting the award, Mr Tabuai said his Elders have raised him and influenced his life.

“Art is a reflection of the lifestyle we live, and my life and art has been influenced by many artists and family members, and all of those teachings have led to this moment,” Mr Tabuai said.

“I’m emotionally overwhelmed and I thank God for this gift.

“As a first-time entrant, this is truly an honour and as the good book says; every good gift and every perfect gift comes from Him, and we must give back to Him.

“Thank you to the Torres Strait Regional Authority and Gab Titui Cultural Centre for this recognition,”

Long-time Gab Titui artist and renowned jewellery-maker Ms Laura Mooka was awarded the Runner’s Up for her body adornment piece Dhibalusi Maluilgal Deep Blue Sea People. It was acknowledged as sophisticated jewellery work by the judges.

2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award Winner + Category Winners

Winner

Boegi (Walking Stick) – Conwell Nathan Tabuai

Runner-Up

Dhibalusi Maluilgal; Deep Blue Sea People – Laura Mooka

Best 2D Work

Maniyotha / Gabau Leaf – Gertie Tomsana

Best 3D Work

Ngoena Mariw Pikin Thayar (I Dreamt of The Spirits) – Naseli Tamwoy

Best Craft Work

Reef Mat – Lavinia Ketchell

Best Cultural Artefact

Zirrol Zagul – James Ahmat Snr

Best Contemporary Jewellery Work

Pearling – Rosaline Tomsana

Best Secondary Student Work

Always Will Be – Zion Guligo

National Museum of Australia History Through Art Award

Booby Island (Ngiangu) – Nola Ward Page

National Museum of Australia History Through Art Award – Secondary Student Work

Connections – Sherella-May Sagigi

The 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award is on display in the Wabunaw Geth Gallery until 2 August 2025. Exhibition catalogues are available for purchase through the Centre’s Gallery Shop, with merchandise available in store and online at shop.gabtitui.gov.au

For more information, contact the Gab Titui Cultural Centre team via CAHTeam@tsra.gov.au or contact 07 4069 0888.