CreatorDenise BuchananTitleBarlawiDate2023MediumAcrylic on canvasDimensionsH. 950mm x W. 1850mm x D. 20mmArtist StatementDenise Buchanan’s artwork Barlawi depicts the brolga’s journey on the coast, dancing across sacred land representing a time untouched by urbanisation, where life flourished. Barlawi was once a common sight across country, her story is connected to seasons, dance, and ceremony, sharing birthing and ceremonial sites with Gumbaynggirr people.
Here, the artist paints Barlawi at a waterhole in a place called Magay Miirlarl, at Valla Deep Creek, where red ochre was formed through a transformation in the landscape.
This place is connected to ancestral stories of Birrugan and his mother Gawnggan, Gawnggan representing mother, evening star, and beauty. This sacred place and Barlawi are interconnected, holding truth in Gumbaynggirr people’s connection to country and animals.Accession NumberG2023.1.1Access AdviceFor research purposes only. No reproduction without permission of Yarrila Arts and Museum.
More Information
Description
Painting depicting a brolga at a watering hole, acrylic on canvas.
