Celebrated annually across Australia in the first week of July (Sunday to Sunday), NAIDOC Week represents an opportunity for all Australians to recognise the world’s oldest living culture, history and traditions.
The week celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year’s theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’, celebrates the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. According to a statement on NAIDOC’s website, “The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite the challenges faced.”
It adds: “‘Blak, Loud and Proud’ encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, (...) calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.”
In line with this year’s theme, Kaiela Arts called out Aboriginal artists connected to Yorta Yorta country in March to create an exhibition.
The works of Tarn Parker, Dylan J. Charles, Cynthia Hardie, Rochelle Patten, Brett Wilson, Belinda Briggs, April Atkinson, Chloe Jones, Andrew Atkinson Snr, Tina King, Mya Falla, Suzanne Atkinson, and Tammy-Lee Atkinson are on display at Kaiela Arts until August 20.
Among the notable artists is Dylan J. Charles, whose artist name is Kinglikebilly. A proud Yorta Yorta, Boonwurrung, Wurundjeri and Pangerang man living in Shepparton, Kinglikebilly is an eminent artist whose work has been purchased by Billie Eilish and prestigious institutions worldwide.
He is deeply involved in bettering his community by helping young people reconnect to their traditions and heal. His art style has evolved over the years, featuring “more dot work and is more lineal”.
“My style now is a more traditional style that represents the Yorta Yorta people,” he said.
“The work you see relates to ceremonies using the traditional way of Country to create fire. A lot of stories relate to the process of creating.”
‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ is an exhibition that is not to be missed. From intricate weaving to crocheted artwork, paintings and poetry, the exhibition will resonate with everyone.
It’s an invitation to listen, learn and create a world where we can all appreciate the depth of Indigenous culture.
The exhibition also features poignant poetry that reflects the Indigenous experience:
“On land of blood red sands and ancient lore,
Echoes linger of an ancient yore.
Questioned: my heritage, doubts arise,
A light-skinned Indigenous, navigating tides.
Children torn from loving arms, stolen away,
Their laughter silenced;
Their spirit dismayed.
Taken from Mothers, Fathers and Kin,
In the name of a misguided, cruel sin.”