Morola Haria - Oa Laea (Shark)

The story of Morola Harai from the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea is one with so many beautiful variations. One of the most fascinating aspects is Morola Harai’s ability to transform into a shark, an animal considered sacred in many coastal villages across PNG. Sharks hold a special place in these communities, with legends that tell stories of love, protection, provision, and even revenge. For many tribes, sharks are believed to carry the spirits of ancestors, acting as guardians of the reef and symbols of abundance. Some even say, “Where there are sharks, there is fish,” and in other stories, they’re seen as protectors, keeping bad omens away from the coastline.

This piece draws inspiration from the colours of the Gulf Province—the blues of the ocean, the earthy tones of the riverbanks, and the sands of the coastline. Some of the patterns are my own creative designs, while others are inspired by traditional Papua New Guinean tribal markings. The shark is shown swimming out of the river and into the open ocean, leaving behind a trail of flower-like waves. These flowers symbolize life, provision, and the beauty of the shark and the places it touches.

Dimension:
76.2cm(h) x 152.6cm(w)

Medium:
Posca Pen, Charcoal, Acrylic and Varnish on 500gms linen Canvas.