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This exhibition celebrates different generations of men, ongoing cultural practice, and connection.
Featured in the exhibition are restored Yidakis, Message sticks, and original artworks by Baluk Arts members.
Led by Melukerdee man Isaiah Columbine, some of our members have come together to attend a Yidaki restoration workshop. This workshop gave them an opportunity to explore their art practice on a different medium.
“The Yidaki is a Men’s Business artifact originating from Northern Australia. This cultural artifact is an instrument used in both ceremony and healing practises. Naturally hollowed out by termites, this artifact is a gift from Country. Baluk were fortunate enough to have access to these Yidaki blanks, which were then restored to be both playable and adorned by the fellas involved in this project. They were chosen for this workshop due to the relationship this artifact has to First Nations Men.”
-Isaiah Columbine
Accompanying the Yidakis is a collection of Message Sticks, which were traditionally used as a method of communication between different communities. These Message Sticks were burnt on and painted by our by our male and female members, recognising the strong connections between them in the community.
“Aunties in community are a pillar to Men and young boys, providing ongoing strong maternal support. The Message Stick workshop was opened up to Aunties/women as a way to commemorate this connection men have to women in our culture.”
-Isaiah Columbine
We also have a special display of paintings by Palawa man Uncle Nick Kupetsky, depicting Palawa landscapes and Aboriginal men with personal significance to him.
We hope you can join us for this truly special exhibition. Opening celebrations are on Saturday 14th November from 2pm. Isaiah Columbine will be giving a brief talk about the exhibition.
Facilitated by Taungwurrung Cultural Educator and Artist Sammy Trist
Come and sit with artist Sammy Trist and create your own pair of earrings using natural materials.
Listen to her as she tells stories of cultural practices, including of women harvesting natural materials to adorn themselves for ceremony.
Design your own pair of earrings to keep or gift to someone for Christmas.
Refreshments will be available, including Australian native infused teas by Jala Jala.
Workshop includes:
- Stories of cultural practices
- Guided earring demonstration
- All materials supplied
- One pair of earrings per participant to take home
For more information, please call the gallery on 0497 004 179 or email gallery@balukarts.org.au
Facilicated by proud Taungurung, Wotjobaluk, Wemba Wemba, and Boon Wurrung artist Aimee McCartney.
Due to popular demand, and following her last sold out workshop, contemporary Aboriginal artist Aimee McCartney is back at Baluk Arts for another painting workshop.
This hands-on painting workshop explores storytelling through colour, symbolism and connection to Country. Aimee will share insights into Aboriginal art, culture and the meanings behind the symbols she uses before guiding participants to create their own contemporary artwork on canvas.
No prior painting experience is required. This workshop is designed to be welcoming, creative and educational, providing participants with the opportunity to learn, reflect and leave with a unique artwork to take home. Attendance is welcome for adults and children aged 15+.
Refreshments will be available, including Australian native infused teas by Jala Jala.
Workshop includes:
- Introduction to contemporary Aboriginal art and cultural storytelling
- Guided painting demonstration
- All art materials supplied
- One completed canvas per participant to take home
For more information, please call the gallery on 0497 004 179 or email gallery@balukarts.org.au
