In a landmark moment of cultural reconnection and national pride, Returning Home, an art exhibition and programme, takes centre stage at Harbourside South in line with the celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
Steamships, in collaboration with Pacific Palms Property, is proud to bring home five Papua New Guinean artists, showcasing their work in-country for the first time and paying tribute to heritage, resilience, identity, and culture. The exhibition and week-long creative programme, which offers workshops, talks, and networking opportunities, features the work of Grace Hasu Dlabik, Yuriyal Bridgeman, Lesley Wengembo, Jeremiah Neundorf, and Serge Ah-Wong.
“Our connection to culture is something we deeply value. At Steamships, we often say that we don’t just do business in PNG — it’s our home. That belief is at the heart of everything we do. Supporting local communities, talent, and creativity is a core part of our commitment to Papua New Guinea. That’s why it was only fitting for us to partner with these incredibly gifted Papua New Guinean artists, to celebrate and elevate their work, and to share their creativity with the wider community we proudly call home,” said Ruth Kissam, Corporate Affairs General Manager at Steamships.
This initiative promises to leave a lasting legacy across cultural, community, and economic dimensions — from revitalising creative energy to fostering cultural pride, and inspiring both emerging and established members of the art community.
“Returning Home has been a pivotal moment for us as artists — a chance to share our art, experiences, and skills with the wider creative community. The overwhelming response has been deeply humbling, affirming the power of creativity not only to connect and inspire, but also to actively contribute to nation-building, shaping identity, strengthening pride, and envisioning the future we wish to create together, using art as a critical conduit,” said Grace Hasu Dlabik, artist and director of BE. ONE CREATIVE.
As Papua New Guinea stands at a moment of national reflection and pride, Returning Home affirms the power of art to connect, heal, and celebrate. This unprecedented exhibition is a beacon for cultural continuity, artistic evolution, and shared identity, inviting all to witness, participate, and be moved.
The Returning Home exhibition will be open to the public from 10 to 22 September at Harbourside South, Port Moresby. Admission is free.
