Millowl exhibition launches at Berninneit
Baluk Arts launched its latest exhibition, 'Millowl’, which opened to a packed house at Berninneit.
Baluk Arts launched its latest exhibition, 'Millowl’, which opened to a packed house at Berninneit (the new Cowes Cultural Centre) last Thursday night.
The evening began with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by the Bunurong Land Council, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land and their enduring connection to it.
Guests then heard from local Bass Coast resident and exhibiting artist Patrice Mahoney OAM, gaining insights into her connection to the island and her creative process.
Other speakers included Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan, and Che McMahon, the manager of Baluk Arts, both singing the praises of the exhibition and the new, purpose-built centre, which they said was sure to become the cultural heart of the local arts scene.
The speeches were followed by a performance by Charlie Needs Braces, fresh off the back of winning the Archie Roach Foundation Award for emerging talent at the Music Victoria Awards ceremony the night before.
Guests were then welcomed into the exhibition space which features five of the country’s most talented Aboriginal artists including Bunurong artist Adam Magennis, Nyul Nyul Saltwater man Lowell Hunter (aka ‘Salty One’), Boonwurrung/Barkindji artist Mitch Mahoney, Guringai Saltwater woman Charlie Woods (aka ‘Charlie Needs Braces’), and local Bass Coast resident Dunghutti/Ngayawana artist Patrice Muthaymiles Mahoney OAM.
The exhibition features an array of art forms, including a traditionally made stringy bark canoe, contemporary paintings, a sand sculpture, projections, all accompanied by a commissioned musical score.
Each piece in the exhibition carries with it a unique story, connecting the viewer with the artist, in celebration of the spirituality and history of the land, sky, waters, and animals of Millowl.
“Guests concluded their journey through the exhibition with a round of applause, testament to the power and beauty of Aboriginal art in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and traditions,” a Baluk Arts spokesperson said.
“The 'Millowl' exhibition serves as a bridge between communities and cultures, encouraging reflection and a deeper connection with the stories, experiences and history that makes Millowl such a special place.”
Baluk Arts invites art lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public to experience 'Millowl' for themselves and celebrate the creative spirit of these five incredible contemporary Aboriginal artists. The exhibition is now open, seven days a week, until December 27. Entrance is free.
For more information visit www.balukarts.org.au and follow @balukarts on socials.
More photos at pisra.com.au/entertainment
