Frankston Arts Centre

Pax Jakupa: 'Hailans igo long Solwara' From Goroka to Frankston

Contemporary PNG artist Pax Jakupa celebrates his connection to Frankston with an exhibition of vibrant, colourful and highly detailed works in 'Hailans igo long Solwara' From Goroka to Frankston.

Exhibitions

Event Details

Category

Exhibitions

Event Starts

Apr 2, 2026 10:00

Event Ends

Apr 24, 2026 16:45

Venue

Frankston Arts Centre - Cube 37

Location

37 Davey Street, Frankston VIC, Australia

‘Hailans igo long Solwara’  From Goroka to Frankston

 

Opening Event: Wednesday 1 April, 6pm to 9pm
Online Registration Essential or 03 9784 1060

Live music will be performed by Charles Maimarosia, a unique and extraordinary Solomon Islands singer and musician, raised in the remote Pipisu village of Malaita. He is renowned for being a singer of important custom knowledge, drawing equally on traditional and contemporary musical styles.

Workshop & Gallery Talk: Ink and gouache on paper with Pax Jakupa 
Thursday 2 April 11am to 1pm

Pax Jakupa (born c. 1979/1980) is a celebrated self-taught contemporary painter from Goroka in Papua New Guinea’s Eastern Highlands. The son of pioneering artist Jakupa Ako, he is known for his vibrant, richly detailed works that honour Papua New Guinea’s cultural, musical, and tribal traditions. His paintings frequently feature traditional figures, birds-of-paradise, and ceremonial objects, brought to life through striking colour and intricate patterning. Renowned for his bold portrayals of Highlands tribesmen, dancers, and native fauna, Pax’s work explores themes of identity, cultural continuity, and connection to ancestral heritage.
 
Presented by Frankston Arts Centre in celebration of PNG and Pax’s 20+ year relationship with Frankston and its artist community.

Images:

(1) Pax Jakupa, Gecko Blue, acrylic on canvas  
(2) Pax Jakupa in studio
(3) Pax Jakupa, Planti pasin bung, mixed cultures, acrylic on canvas
(4) Frankston Bakery in Goroka in Pax’s home town in PNG’s Eastern Highlands.

 

For more information click here