Queensland Museum unveils new exhibition celebrating Papua New Guinean women's stories of identity and belonging

26 June 2025

Queensland Museum Kurilpa is proud to announce the launch of its new exhibition, Un/tethered, opening on Friday 27 June 2025.

This exhibition brings together the personal stories of six Papua New Guinean women living in Queensland, exploring their experiences of identity, community, and cultural connection in the diaspora.

Timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence, Un/tethered invites visitors to reflect on cultural survival, sovereignty, and the ways communities remain tethered to their roots - even when far from home.

Told through personal objects and community narratives, Un/tethered delves into themes of belonging, adaptation, and the enduring ties that bind individuals to their heritage across oceans and generations.

The exhibition features items from the women's homes alongside pieces from the Queensland Museum collection, reflecting cultural identity, resilience, and the quiet ache of distance.

Queensland Museum CEO Dr Jim Thompson said Un/tethered invites us to think about where we come from, what we’re tied to, and how we stay connected in changing times.

“Un/tethered is a unique opportunity to hear directly from members of the Papua New Guinean community about the challenges and strengths of living between cultures,” Dr Thompson said.

“This exhibition highlights how museums can serve as places of dialogue, reflection and connection. We are honoured to help amplify these voices and share these stories with all Queenslanders."

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Un/tethered exhibition highlights the important relationship between Queensland and one of our nearest neighbours.

“Un/tethered celebrates the stories, identities and bonds of culture and heritage between six remarkable Papua New Guinean women and the communities they have inspired,” Minister Langbroek said.

“The Crisafulli Government is proud to support Queensland Museum to present exhibitions and events that inform the community and enrich our lives.”

Queensland Museum Curator First Nations Cultures and exhibition curator Imelda Miller said Un/tethered is more than a display - it’s a space for community, connection, and pride.

“This exhibition is about connection - to culture, to family, to identity. The women at the heart of Un/tethered are storytellers, artists and cultural practitioners who are generously sharing their lived experiences,” said Imelda.

“Through their voices and treasured objects, they show us how culture is kept alive in daily acts and collective memory.”

Un/tethered examines key themes such as identity and independence, connection and belonging, and our ever-evolving relationship with the past. It honours the resilience of a community that continues to celebrate its roots while forging a future in new landscapes

The exhibition is a timely recognition of the strength and diversity of the Papua New Guinean diaspora in Queensland - a vibrant community that, while sometimes untethered from its homeland, continues to anchor itself through tradition, storytelling, and shared cultural practice.

Un/tethered is a FREE exhibit on Level 2, Queensland Museum Kurilpa.

For more information visit www.museum.qld.gov.au/kurilpa