Kula Paintings

 These are the first two paintings in a set of four that represent the first jewels of the Kula traditional trade that has circulated amongst the Muyua people for hundreds of years.  The paintings are by a local artist who lives in the village of Kulumadau.  Steven and his wife Mispah are very dear friends.

Kula is a ritualised trading culture existing in eastern Papua New Guinea.   Traditionally two kinds of items were traded; arm bands carved from the toea shell know as Mwali and spondylus shell necklaces, Soulava. Each of these items were traded individually.  Google Kula to find more details on this traditional wealth.

Kula Necklace
Size: 60cm X 30cm
Medium: Acrylic paint on canvas.


Kula Crown & Necklace
Size: 60cm X 30cm
Medium: Acrylic on canvas

I was privileged to be taken by dingy to visit the village of Bowagis on the north of the island.  This village is reported to hold the most Kula wealth in the province.  The young woman in the photograph, proudly showed me one of her family's most precious pieces.

Men free dive for the shells that are most treasured in these pieces often risking life and limb due to the great depths that these shells are found.  Reports of deaths due to decompression sickness are not uncommon.  The tradition of Kula trade is complex and brings much social standing to those who hold such pieces.  Secrets are guarded very closely by those who are included in this trading ring.

 Artist:  Steven Towosawa in his home work studio situated in Kulumadau Village on Woodlark Island.