PNG Arts is was almost a local institution and a Port Moresby “must do” if you are interested in the traditional arts and crafts of Papua New Guinea. Unfortunately it has closed down for reasons not currently known – but it is still worth knowing about!!

Located on the Spring Garden Road on the Gordons area of the capital. PNG Arts was quite special as it provided an easy way to see and buy the unique artefacts from the main art producing regions of Papua New Guinea.

However, try not to be fooled by the less than salubrious exterior…

Inside was a veritable treasure trove of arts and crafts. Which come directly from the villages that make them.

Not an insignificant thing considering the logistics involved in getting to those villages. Not to mention establishing relationships with the artists and village elders. Plus getting the artifacts to Port Moresby!

PNG Arts was first started in 1977 by Joe Chan. Who is descended from a family of Chinese merchants who first settled in East New Britain province around the turn of the 20th century. The whole operation is now largely run by his son Joey.

You could easily spend a couple of hours browsing the items on display at PNG Art. And, if you were lucky and get in to a conversation with Joe Chan himself, and ask him about the early days of the business. When he was establishing his network of contacts with the village artisans across Papua New Guinea – fascinating and intriguing stuff!

The prices charged for the traditional artefacts were reasonable. Plus you can get the larger items shipped to where you wanted them. While leaving PNG Arts to deal with all the red tape. Plus get advice on what smaller pieces can be packed in your suitcase without getting in to trouble with customs in PNG or your final destination.

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