Bunjils Firestick Collage Ed. 1 of 1

Bunjil and the Firestick
This artwork explores the story of Bunjil, the creator eagle in the traditions of the Kulin Nations. In this Dreaming story, Bunjil watches over the people and ensures that the gift of fire is shared so that communities can survive, cook food, and keep warm. The work reflects ideas of protection, knowledge, and respect for the natural world.
The background pattern is created using lino print and repeated across the canvas to represent Country and the interconnectedness of land, people, and story. Circular motifs echo the idea of gathering places and the ongoing cycles of knowledge passed through generations.
At the centre of the composition, the silhouette of Bunjil flies across the sky, watching over the land below. The grass tree at the bottom of the artwork represents the firestick, symbolising the source of fire and the knowledge of how to use it. Grass trees have traditionally been associated with fire and regeneration, making them a powerful symbol of warmth, survival, and the sharing of knowledge.

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I am a Boon Wurrung/Bunurong (Mornington Peninsula) based artist with deep roots in my Ngoorabul heritage.
My practice is an ongoing connection with Country, shaped by the landscapes of my upbringing and the cultural teachings that continue to guide me.
Working as a self‑taught artist, I bring together contemporary Indigenous approaches with the tactile resonance of printmaking. I create works that hold intricately detailed stories: quiet reflections of place, memory, and connection. Each piece serves as an offering — a way of honoring the moments, experiences, and landscapes that have shaped my journey.
My creative process is grounded in connection to Country, who remains my greatest teacher, providing both inspiration and responsibility.
As I continue to grow in my practice, I wholeheartedly embrace the abundant richness of my indigenous heritage and look forward to a day where our history is not only acknowledged but woven into the broader societal narrative.