The exhibition showcases animal motifs in the art and design of South East First Peoples in Victoria. Drawn from Koorie Heritage Trust’s extensive collection, close to fifty works, including paintings, animation, drawings, sculpture, tools, cultural belongings and adornment, feature a range of creatures such as mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, vertebrates, invertebrates and insects.
In placing First Peoples’ lifestyle and connection to place, animals are important in recognising identity and cultural strengthening in the context of storylines and ceremony, starting with depictions of Bunjil the eagle, creator of the land.
Leonard Tregonning (Gunai/Kurnai), CD (Camp Dog), 2015, plaster, wire, synthetic polymer paint. Collection of Koorie Heritage Trust, donated 2024. Photograph: Christian Capurro. Courtesy the artist and Koorie Heritage Trust, Melbourne
Koorie Heritage Trust
27 July to 24 November 2024
Melbourne
