Milne Bay artists return from historic MET gallery opening in New York

Storyteller Jeff Evernett at the MET (Image: Supplied)

A group of Milne Bay artists representing the Massim Museum and Art Gallery have returned to Papua New Guinea after participating in the prestigious reopening of the Oceanic Gallery at the Metropolitan Museum of Art [MET] in New York City.

The delegation included storyteller Jeff Evenett, master carver Lazarus Modedaya Touvakukwa, and museum trustee Fidelma Saevaru. Their participation marked a significant moment in the global recognition of Milne Bay’s efforts to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage.

Operating for over a decade, the Massim Museum and Art Gallery has been dedicated to safeguarding the cultural history and artefacts of the region. Its inclusion in the MET's reopening is the culmination of years of collaboration and dialogue aimed at reframing how Pacific artefacts are represented in global institutions.

The reopening on May 31st was part of the MET’s renovation of the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing, which houses collections from Ancient America, Africa, and Oceania.

Evenett, known for his work in preserving oral histories particularly stories related to war and culture through tourism experiences, was a key voice in the delegation, highlighting the role of storytelling in cultural preservation.

Master carver Lazarus Modedaya Touvalukwa at the M.E.T (Image: Supplied)

Seavaru said the engagement wasn't just a showcase, but it opened doors to potential collaborations with other major institutions, including the San Francisco Museum and even Harvard University, which has indicated interest in working with Milne Bay on Massim artefacts in their collection.

For Milne Bay Province, known for its vibrant tourism sector, the experience offered valuable insights. The team hopes to share their learnings with fellow local artists and continue building capacity in cultural preservation.

Saevaru added that this was a learning journey for all of them, not just promoting the culture but ensuring it’s understood and respected globally.

The artists’ international appearance is being hailed as a proud moment not only for Milne Bay but for Papua New Guinea’s cultural diplomacy.