The vast ocean, endless waves, beneath a star-filled night sky, there were those who set sail, guided solely by the constellations. They felt the currents with their hands, braved the winds, and traced the flight of seabirds to discover distant shores. Who were the first to venture into that vast ocean, rowing their canoes toward the unknown? What stories emerged on the bountiful lands they encountered?

The Pacific Ocean, so vast it could encompass all the continents on Earth, holds countless stories of life, history, and culture. This exhibition delves into the history, culture, spirituality, and art of Oceania—shedding light on the past and present of these extraordinary island communities. This exhibition showcases the cultural heritage of regions such as Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, New Caledonia, Fiji, Hawaii, New Zealand, Tahiti, and more.

- Title: Oceania: Art of the Great Ocean (tentative title)

- Period: 30 Apr 2025 (Wed) – 14 Sep 2025 (Sun)

             *Touring Exhibition(Jeonnam Museum of Art): 30 Sep – 28 Dec 2025 

- Venue: Special Exhibition Gallery 2, National Museum of Korea

- Exhibition Highlights: Over 180 pieces of Oceania’s cultural heritage from the 18th to 20th centuries, including large canoes, prow carvings, crafts, ceremonial items, and ornaments.

- Organisers: National Museum of Korea, Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac (co-hosted)

 

*About Oceania

Oceania refers to a broad region in the Pacific Ocean, comprising numerous islands and nations. Known for its unique and diverse ecosystems and cultures, Oceania is one of the most fascinating regions on Earth. While often divided into Australia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia—a classification shaped by 19th-century Western anthropologists—the indigenous peoples of Oceania continue to narrate their histories and identities through their own lenses, distinct from Western frameworks.