Source: Special Correspondent in Bougainville

This is the story of an individual whom, despite the setbacks of the infamous ten year crisis, discovered an innate talent of carving stories, practices and legends onto wood. Practically, he is a legend carver for he is able to put legends and tales of Bougainville onto wood.                                                 

Michael Totobu comes from Nigitang in Toberaki of Nagovis, inside Bana District, South Bougainville. This sixty-seven year old is well known in his area for his ability to put stories and legends on wood. He is simply a legend carver who started plying the trade in the early stages of the ten year crisis. For Michael, carving came very late as he was already in his forties when he discovered his talent. Prior to that, Michael used to organize traditional ‘singsing’ and performance groups, traveling in and around Central and South Bougainville with his contingent doing traditional performance for festivals and events.

Right: Mr. Totobu in his carving house

It was not until one day during the early stages of the crisis, when Michael was making bows and arrows for an upcoming singsing performance, that he saw his art work on the wood being very crafty; this compelled him to put stories, practices and legends of his Nagovis ancestors onto wood. Eventually Michael left performing and turned to his new found talent. He has been carving ever since and has a collection of different artworks depicting stories and legends he used to sing and perform about. 

Some of Michael's lengendry carvings

However, when asked if he had any intention of making a living out of it; he replied that the carvings, especially the stories and legends they depict should not be put for sale.  He said that it is important to maintain the heritage of storytelling using the artifacts. Michael stated that selling the carvings would mean devaluing the integrity our customs and practices. It is like giving away part of you to someone who can give it away cheaply again, implied Mr. Totobu. I do not wish to see my carvings sold or the stories they depict being recorded electronically. It is best being told by someone who understands the culture and the intentions of the stories and practices of our people, said Michael.

One of Michael's carvings

Interestingly, Mr. Totobu wishes to establish in the central location where his artwork can be displayed and he will be able to share the stories, practices and legends of his people with others through his crafty woodwork. Michael also implied that he can only market his talent and not his precious objects. He hopes that one day he will be able to establish his own library and people can visit and listen to stories, practices and legends depicted in his carvings