Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is proud to present Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai, a national touring exhibition presented by NorthSite Contemporary Arts in partnership with Torres Strait Regional Authority’s Gab Titui Cultural Centre (TSRA), and toured by Museums & Galleries Queensland.

This is a profound exhibition honours the late Torres Strait Islander artist Billy Missi (1970-2012), born on Mabuiag Island. He was deeply influenced by the storytelling, song, and dance traditions of his Wagadagam Tribe.

Beginning in earnest in the 1990s, his artistic journey combined traditional carving techniques with modern linocut methods, creating a unique aesthetic that earned international recognition before his passing in 2012.

Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai honours Missi’s artistic legacy and his dedication to maintaining the language and culture of his people. The bilingual exhibition features diverse forms of printmaking and a film, presenting an immersive experience into contemporary Torres Strait Islander culture and customs.

This significant touring exhibition has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program and will travel Australia from 2025 to 2028, sharing this immense exhibition with 13 galleries across Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.