In 2009 the PNG Government announced that Australian artist and sculptor, Hal Holman OAM, had been awarded the Order of Logohu for his work which included designing the PNG national crest and greatly influencing the design of the country’s flag.
The Order of Logohu is PNG highest national award. Logohu means bird of paradise in Motu, the main language of Papua. The bird of paradise is central to both the crest and the national flag and has long been a major theme in Hal Holman’s art and sculpture.
The Thornleigh-based octogenarian, who is still active in the arts, has paintings and sculptures in many significant collections. His works are displayed in many public spaces in Australia and PNG.
Jackson Wells arranged the event and generated the publicity - media coverage on Radio Australia, in the PNG press, ABC Radio and community newspapers around where Hal lives.
The nuggetty artist arrived at the event wearing his commando uniform to prove to his old mates that he was still as trim as ever.
Hal had first arrived in PNG during World War II as a commando with the AIF. He operated behind Japanese lines on the mainland and was attached to the American marines who liberated Rabaul.
He returned to PNG in the early 1960s, initially working as an illustrator with the Department of Education and later as senior artist for the PNG Government. It was in this capacity that he designed the national crest and set the parameters for the national flag contest.
Hal also designed and illustrated innumerable maps, posters, pamphlets and publications while continuing to produce numerous portraits and paintings of the bird of paradise. He even designed the uniforms for the PNG Constabulary Band.
Commenting on the event, and surrounded by family and his old PNG mates, the 89-year old said “it’s the best day of my life.”
