Joel Ngallametta

Joel is a custodian and song man of the Wanman ceremonial group. His main sculptural theme is the “Law Poles”, known as Thap Yonk. He is also the principal ceremonial song man and dancer for the associated ceremonies of the Kugu Uwanh tribe. Joel also has claims and responsibilities to the Putsch traditions.

Joel makes artefacts, spears, woomera, fire-sticks and “Law Poles” (Thap Yonk). More recently Joel has been working on a series of paintings exploring line and tone through his traditional saltwater clan design, usually applied to the final surface of his “Law Poles” (Thap Yonk).

Sadly Joel passed away in Cairns, 2019.