A person sits on a coulourful woven mat using their hands to weave with colourful ribbons

Traditional Weaving with Ranu James


Saturday 6 December 2025

10am - 12pm | Family friendly, ages 5+
1pm - 4pm | Ages 16+

Queensland Museum Kurilpa, Level 2

Map
 Adult  $35
 Concession  $25
 Child (5-15 years)  $25
 Additional child (5-15 years)  Free
 Companion Card holder Free
 Prices include GST.  

Join us for traditional weaving workshops with Ranu James, a passionate artist and proud advocate for her Papuan heritage. Ranu will share traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations. Connect with the rich artistry of Papua. No experience needed—just bring your creativity!

Whether you're looking for a creative family activity or a deeper artistic experience, these workshops offer a warm, welcoming space to learn, create, and celebrate Papuan culture.

Ranu James (Gabagaba Village, Central Province) is an Early Childhood Professional and Cultural Practitioner featured in the free exhibition un/tethered: connections through storytellers from Papua New Guinea on now at Queensland Museum Kurilpa.

WORKSHOP 1 Armband weaving: 10am - 12pm

Families are invited to take part in an Armband Weaving Workshop. This beginner-level session is designed to be family-friendly, welcoming both adults and children to learn how to weave armbands using traditional methods. All participants, including children aged 5+ and adults, need tickets. Under 5's are free. Children must not be left unattended.

This beginner level workshop is for ages 5-100+. No experience needed. All materials provided for ticket holders.

WORKSHOP 2 Basket weaving: 1pm - 4pm

Join us for a Basket Weaving Workshop for ages 16+. Suitable for beginners, this session focuses on creating a traditional Papuan basket. Under Ranu’s guidance, you’ll explore the cultural meaning behind the craft while learning practical weaving skills.

This beginner level workshop is for ages 16+. No experience needed. All materials provided.

A woman smiles warmly, wearing a pink flower tucked behind her ear and an ornate wooden necklace

Ranu James

Early Childhood Professional and Cultural Practitioner
Gabagaba Village, Central Province

View objects made by Ranu in the free exhibition un/tethered: connections through storytellers from Papua New Guinea.

Un/tethered brings together the stories of six creative women from the Papua New Guinea diaspora community in Queensland as they explore belonging and connection. Through objects carefully selected from their homes and the Queensland Museum collection, they examine cultural anchors, adaptations and the quiet ache of distance. Discover how the evolving nature of identity is woven through all we’re tethered to and all we’ve lost.

Stay in the loop!

Get the latest exhibition, events and programming activities at Queensland Museum Kurilpa every month, with our free eNews straight to your inbox!