How ancient voyagers transformed ten thousand islands into a vast, interconnected global network.
In short: This animated map visualizes the migration patterns of Oceanic peoples across one third of the globe. By tracing the movement of Papuan and Austronesian ancestors, it reveals how these voyagers created a sophisticated, cosmopolitan network that links diverse cultures through shared histories and artistic traditions.
The animation, titled Spheric Oceania (2024) and created by artist Sean Connelly, illustrates the immense mobility of Pacific peoples over millennia. It highlights the migration of Papuan-speaking ancestors across the Sahul continental shelf, followed by the expansive journeys of Austronesian-speaking voyagers. These movements connected thousands of islands, which functioned as both departure points and destinations.
Beyond geography, the work explores the Pacific worldview, emphasizing that artworks serve as vessels that bridge communities and connect the past to the present and future. The region is recognized by various Indigenous names, including Solwara, Moananuiākea, Te Moananui a Kiwa, and Moana, reflecting a deep cultural identity that spans this vast oceanic expanse.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Arts of Oceania Map | Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
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