Bendigo’s first ever dedicated and permanent First Nations art gallery will allow First Nations artists and visitors to see amazing indigenous art for free.
Located in the historic Bendigo Visitor Centre, Bendigo’s first ever dedicated and permanent First Nations art gallery – Djaa Djuwima – meaning to “show, share Country” has officially opened – with its inaugural exhibition entitled Gurangarra Dja Dja Wurrung Djayi.
Dedicated to celebrating Country and signifying an important cultural step towards reconciliation, Djaa Djuwima is a safe place for First Nations artists to explore cultural expression, identity, heritage and connection and for visitors to see some amazing indigenous art – FOR FREE.
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With 22 creatives and makers showcasing incredible works, all of the exhibitors have provided unique interpretations on how they connect with Country exclusively for this exhibition.
Djaa Djuwima showcases plenty of colour and movement – with all of the artists telling their own story and inspiration behind the range of beautiful works on display including weaving, artworks and woodwork.
The City of Greater Bendigo’s First Nations Arts Officer, Janet Bromley is Djaa Djuwima’s Curator and a featuring artist in the inaugural exhibition. As the grandchild of a stolen generation person – her Nan, Bromley reconnected with her Aboriginal heritage and family – where she discovered her love for making and storytelling in the form of traditional weaving.
Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said Djaa Djuwima is an exciting opportunity to see Aboriginal artworks not seen anywhere else with each creative bringing their own unique style using traditional and contemporary methods.
“Djaa Djuwima will be a prominent platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, customs and stories. It will enrich our region’s cultural experiences and create better understanding, recognition and respect for the living culture of First Nations peoples,” Cr Metcalf said.
Using recycled clothing, plastic waste, found objects and bush materials, Bromley practises traditional methods of gathering and weaving to build and tell stories in her small works and large installations – one of which is currently on display at Gurangarra Dja Dja Wurrung Djayi.
The new gallery is located at the Bendigo Visitor Centre on Pall Mall and this exhibition is on show every day until Tuesday February 28, 2023 (except Christmas Day) with many future exhibitions currently in the works.
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