A master carver in Bougainville is encouraging young people to follow his steps into the traditional practice as a livelihood.
Joe Dutaona became serious about carving after he found the right tools while residing in neighbouring Solomon Islands during the Bougainville civil war.
Back living in Arawa now, the carver says living off the land is how Bougainville can be economically independent
He spoke to Johnny Blades who asked him how he got into carving.
Joe Dutaona, master wood carver outside his studio in Arawa, Bougainville. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
