YORTA Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Mutti Mutti, and Boon Wurrung multi-disciplinary artist and curator, Maree Clarke, has been announced as the chosen artist for the Berninneit Public Art Commission.
Chosen through a competitive Expression of Interest process held from August to September last year, Maree's selection was confirmed following onsite interviews at Berninneit, Cowes, according to Bass Coast Shire Council.
Maree Clarke was selected for her emphasis on community participation through a series of workshops, celebrating the unique local character and history by sharing traditional Aboriginal ways of travelling and living on the island.
Her vision for the commission centres around a stunning Murrini glass canoe, formed from glass sections created during public workshops at Berninneit, where the community will have the opportunity to contribute to crafting and arranging glass sections.
The canoe references the long connection to the waterways, and travel. The Murrini glass at once captures the microscopic elements of the river reed, the play of light and colour reflects the sparkle of the local wetlands and ocean that surrounds Phillip Island.
Mayor of Bass Coast, Cr Rochelle Halstead, encourages everyone to get involved and share in the creativity saying "This is your chance to work with the extraordinary First Nations artist Maree Clarke and leave your mark on a piece that will inspire generations to come. Imagine future generations looking up at this breathtaking glass canoe suspended in Berninneit's Grand Hall, representing our community's creativity and collaboration. I can’t wait to see how the light dances through the glass, telling stories of First Nations culture while celebrating the pride we all share in this special place."
Maree will host "Yawa (Long Journey)", a hands-on workshop at Berninneit from Friday, January 31 to Sunday, February 2.
Community members are encouraged to drop-in on any day and join for as little or as long as they like.
During these workshops, community members will have the unique opportunity to contribute to the artwork by arranging Murrini glass sections. This hands-on experience allows participants to learn about the artistry of glassmaking, traditional practices, and the stories that shape Maree’s work. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal artists while learning about traditional practices and the stories that inspire them.
Each workshop station accommodates three participants at a time.
For more information and to RSVP to participate, visit basscoast.vic.gov.au/yawa-longjourney