Daniel O’Shane Born 1990, Cairns Kuku Yalanji (Mossman-Cooktown) (father) Kulkagal (central Torres Strait) (father) Miriam Mer (eastern Torres Strait) (mother) Daniel’s strong sense of design and confidence in his patterning is drawn from his indigenous Australian heritage - Torres Strait Island and Aboriginal. The unique fusion of both cultures is exciting and representative of a growing movement in Far North Queensland, Australia. Through his fine carving and elegant image-making, he retells the ancient myths and stories entrusted to him by his elders from Erub Island and observes the unique creatures that inhabit the reefs. Daniel has been the recipient of several prestigious Australian national print awards. His work is held in public and private collections in Australia and internationally. Artist Statement "Aua (Uncle)" In Meuram culture when a young woman is married, she will leave her family to join her husband’s. Upon giving birth, if a boy is born there are protocols to ensure the connection to his mother’s side is not forgotten also preventing close bloodline marriages. Young teenage boys are taught some cultural values from their Aua (mother’s older brother). One example is the boy’s first successful turtle catch (only the Aua can take the boy out for his first turtle). The connection they can have is less sensitive than the relationship between the young boy and his parents and communication can be less emotional, for example; the difference in the tone of the parent’s voice or a facial expression when upset can come across as disappointed and judgmental but the uncle can sound and more encouraging and less judgmental (similar to the western education system where a complete stranger (regarded as a teacher) educates children). This ensures a strong bond between the two families and a closer community.