Menepo: the recent evolution of a traditional wood sculpture from Santa Cruz in the Solomon Islands: Tuhinga 14

Tuhinga 14: 35 - 40

ABSTRACT: This paper traces the recent evolution of 'Menepo', a traditional free-standing wooden statue from Santa Cruz in the eastern Solomon Islands. Following their recent development by David Kio of Honiara, menepo-like sculptures have evolved into a new genre of contemporary carvings that are becoming national icons across the Solomon Islands.

KEYWORDS: Melanesian art forms, Solomon Islands, Santa Cruz, traditional and contemporary sculptures, 'duka', 'menepo'.