Object of the Week: New Ireland Carving of a Fish Spirit

Fish Spirit, 20th century
Artist Ben Sisia (1931- ); New Ireland
Wood, natural pigments and shell; 38.5 x 15 in.
Purchased with funds provided by Trude Jordan
Bowers Museum #2006.7.1a,b

This evil fleshless fish spirit is said to always be found swimming alone. Here his vicious fangs are thoroughly exposed and his eyes, made of shell, are full of malicious intent. Early New Ireland sculptures were destroyed or sold to collectors after they served their singular purpose as Malagan ceremonial items where they served as mythical representations in festivals to strengthen relationships and functioned in the memorial rites for the dead. In this way thousands of sculptures have found their way into public and private art collections. Sculpture is the predominant art form in New Ireland with a long tradition of carving made by the artist from memory. In fact, sculptors typically were hired by elders who gave verbal instructions for the design of an object; the artists’ dreams solidified the rest of the appearance. Still, the overall appearance and artistic traits of New Ireland sculpture has changed little over the years.

The artist Ben Sisia’s works are inspired by dreams of mystical images and visions. Sisia keeps the tradition of Malagan wood carving alive strengthening the ties between the living and spirit world.