The first book devoted to the art of the vast South Seas island groups in the Bismarck Archipelago.This book features stunning, ephemeral creations made with natural materials such as plant fibre, light woods, bark cloth, and tree pith - among the most colourful of the Pacific Island arts. An inspiration to the German Expressionists and the Surrealists, these pieces combine colour, fragility, and a sense of temporal purpose. Essays explore the art history of the region and set the beautifully photographed works in cultural context.