Claytus Yambon
Artist Statement
Claytus Yambon is Village Councillor and a master
carver from Korogo in Papua New Guinea’s Middle
Sepik region. He is of the Iatmul tribe. Uri, his
grandfather’s brother, taught him to carve. Claytus has
travelled much of the Sepik River, and has an extensive
knowledge of the various styles and forms of Sepik art.
As one of Korogo’s preeminent carvers, he was chosen
by his community to create one of the house posts
for their haus tambaran (spirit house). With his wife
Esther, Claytus established one of the first village-based
guesthouses on the river.
Claytus represented Papua New Guinea at an
international carvers’ exchange in Victoria, Canada,
in 1986. He plays a key role in the organization of
Alcheringa Gallery’s Sepik River expeditions, and with
Esther has for many years provided a welcoming home
base for regional exploration.
Since 1986, he has regularly participated in exhibitions
at Alcheringa Gallery.