“WanBel is a catalyst for future endeavours and international collaborations between Papua New Guinea and the participating institutions. The exhibition is committed to the creation of new alliances between the custodians of PNG arts and culture, and respect for the original sources of these international collections.”
-Shiva Lynn Burgos, International Representative and Arts Envoy for Papua New Guinea. Founder, The Mariwai Project.
Commemorating Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence
In anticipation of Papua New Guinea’s historic milestone commemorating the Nation’s 50th Anniversary of Independence on September 16, 2025, we have extended an invitation to selected museums and cultural institutions to come together for WanBel: a PNG Collective Global Exhibition.
The Mariwai Project, in partnership with the PNG Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and its agencies the National Museum and Art Gallery, Port Moresby and the PNG National Cultural Commission (NCC), engages these collaborations as part of PNG’s official 2025 national program: Celebrate our History, Inspire our Future.
Running through September 2026, over the next year participants are holding tailored exhibitions, educational events and workshops in their own spaces and share digital learning resources. The public will benefit from expanded access to rare objects, talks, creative labs, family days, and more, creating the largest and most inclusive global exhibition of PNG art ever assembled for millions of visitors worldwide
PNG’s exceptional arts, traditions, and cultural artifacts reflect our diverse heritage. As we mark half a century of independence, we illuminate PNG’s cultural legacy and honour the artists and the cultures from which they originate.
“As we prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence, it is imperative that we showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of papua New Guinea to the world. Our art is a vibrant representation of our history, diversity and identity, and it deserves recognition on a global stage…Let us seize the opportunity to elevate Papua New Guinea’s standing in the global arts community whilst instilling pride in our citizens.”
– Hon. James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea
The Mariwai Project 