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Opening | Barangga: First Nations Design

17 June 2023
12.00pm – 5.00pm AEST
UNSW Galleries
This event has ended

‘Barangga’ takes place on Bidjigal and Gadigal Country. This land has been an important place of learning since time immemorial. We recognise the Bidjigal and Gadigal peoples as the Continuing Custodians of this site, and acknowledge them as the first designers and innovators of this land.

'Barangga' is a Dharawal word meaning 'large vessel' or 'island'. It speaks to the significance of design and making in First Nations practices, while embodying the notion of bringing people together and holding space for community.

The exhibition and accompanying program of workshops celebrates design and making practices as a vital form of cultural knowledge in First Nations Communities across Australia. The project considers the ongoing importance of preserving material culture and renewing cultural practices; connections with Country; Community consultation and collaboration; and intergenerational knowledge exchange.

The project presents itself as an exhibition and a workspace, activated through a series of making workshops offering a space to create, share, and learn throughout the exhibition period.

Practitioners
Debra Beale
Sharyn Egan
Luke Russell
Leanne Tobin

Yamaji Women:
Elvie Dann
Margaret Whitehurst
Barbara Merritt
Jenine Boeree
Charmaine Papertalk Green
Donna Ronan
Nicole Monks & Yarra Monks
Michelle Sims
Chloe Sims

The project is led by UNSW Professor of Practice, UNSW Galleries Advisory board member, and multi-disciplinary creative Nicole Monks. Presented by UNSW Galleries in partnership with UNSW Art & Design.

Approval was granted from the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council to use language in the project title.

This event will take place in UNSW Galleries Cnr of Oxford St and Greens Rd, Paddington NSW 2021.


Image: Miyarnuwimanha, installation view, detail, The Lock Up, Newcastle, 2021. Photography: Fourth Street Studio. Image courtesy of the artists.