Wurundjeri Biik, yalinguth, yalingbu, yirramboi [Wurundjeri Country, yesterday, today, tomorrow] 2021

Summary

Conceived by Mandy Nicholson, this word-based artwork in Woiwurrung was made by Chris Cochius, Amy Cornall, Tim Gresham and Cheryl Thornton of the Australian Tapestry Workshop. It is a declaration of Aboriginal ownership of Naarm (Melbourne) and survival through history. Nicholson’s interest in reviving and translating Aboriginal languages, particularly her mother tongue, is at the heart of the vibrant textile, and points to the role language plays in expressing and sustaining culture across generations. While language is central to the tapestry so too is Country. Nicholson pays tribute to the layered realms that make up Country and provide a deep spiritual link: Wurru Wurru Biik (Sky Country), Baanj Biik (Water Country), Biik-dui (On Country), Biik-ut (Below Country) – all interconnected and watched over by creator being Bunjil, from Tharangalk Biik, above the clouds. Originally commissioned with no specific hanging location in mind, the work was upscaled to occupy the key entry position within the newly refurbished ground floor of the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building. A cutting-off ceremony involving the artist, Lord Mayor Sally Capp and a handful of other invited guests was held at the Australian Tapestry Workshop on 10 December 2020.