Attrib to. Nurdin Wenda
Attrib to. Nurdin Wenda | Indonesia b.unknown | Noken 2005 | Bag: ilam or metel bark fibre string, karang kwe and dome (brown and yellow orchid) stem and cotton | Purchased 2006. Queensland Art Gallery Foundation | Collection: Queensland Art Gallery
Fashioned from flexible bark and brightly coloured orchid stems, exquisite noken (bags) draw on and nourish a sense of place for the Highland Lani peoples of Papua. Knowledge embodied in traditional knotting and weaving methods connect with creation myths and narratives relating to the local environment, ensuring that noken are distinct expressions of cultural identity.
Noken are also a highly refined form of creative expression. Though limited to an exploration of abstract geometric forms and lines, the patterns worked into noken – such as those attributed to Nurdin Wenda – make stunning use of the delicate tones of natural orchid fibres; tones lead the eye back and forth, creating a sense of space and depth. Historically, this animation has played an important role in attracting attention in courtship, as well as bride price rituals where noken were exchanged and gifted. Today, noken are also made to capture the attention of an international market, as the Lani work to establish respectful relationships based on understanding.
