‘Kalabus (prison)’ series 2024
Synthetic yarn embroidery on rice bags
Courtesy of the artists and Milani Gallery, Meanjin/Brisbane

‘Kalabus (prison)’ series 2024 brings together 33 textiles embroidered by members of the Haus Yuriyal collective. Each of the artists’ bold designs is a translation of those they created for their kuman (shield) paintings. The use of rice bags as a surface for embroidering these eye-popping designs in colourful yarn is inspired by the equally vibrant works created by people incarcerated at Bihute Prison in Goroka. The installation of ‘Kalabus’ along the front of Alison Wel’s Kamkau Ike (Haus Toktok) 2024 references the ways in which these structures are ornamented with brightly coloured flowers and fruit from local gardens – a symbol of the community’s wealth and vitality.