Platform Arts will host an exhibition featuring the work of Yolngu artists from Arnhem Land, with two of the artists themselves travelling down to Geelong for the opening event.
Bula’bula Arts Centre in Ramingining, Northern Territory, will bring Barrku Wanga (going to a faraway place), an exhibition dedicated specifically to Geelong, to Platform Arts from November 18 to December 15.
The exhibition will include the paintings and weavings of 18 artists that interpret the stories of Yolngu cultural lore and explore social structures such as Yolngu language, ceremonies, songs and identity.
Artist and chair of Bula’bula Arts Andrew Wanamilil Malibirr, artist Steve Wanamilil Malibirr, and Bula’bula Arts executive director Mel George will be at Platform Arts for the exhibition launch on November 18, with the artists demonstrating the artistic techniques used by the Yolngu people.
Ms George said Bula’bula Arts had jumped at the opportunity to bring Barrku Wanga to Geelong.
“Coming from remote Ramingining, we’re so far away, and our town has only 700 people,” she said.
“Yolngu people have few opportunities to travel, and when they do, it’s often to major cities, which can be overwhelming.
“We’ve found regional parts of Australia excel at hosting meaningful connections, and any time we can connect Yolngu people with other mob across Australia is to help them share their unique culture and stories of their country.
“It’s exciting to bring people from Arnhem Land to Geelong; we know the local audience will enjoy connecting to these ancient stories through the medium of visual arts.”
Barrku Wanga evolved in partnership with Platform Arts and is supported by the Northern Territory government, the federal government’s Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program, Creative Victoria, and the City of Greater Geelong. Visit www.platformarts.org.au/events/barrku-wanga for more information.
