Injalak Arts and Modern Times present Nahnan, an exhibition of fibre works, showcasing a truly dedicated group of First Nations artists from the community of Gunbalanya in the Northern Territory. Nahnan (meaning to care for) explores the deeply rooted traditions of caring for country, and the many forms in which this takes shape for the daluk’s (women) living on Kunwinjku land today.
Injalak Arts is an Aboriginal-owned organisation with the community of Gunbalnya, West Arnhem Land, at its heart. The country on which Injalak sits is brimming with a myriad of flora and natural materials. Whilst in abundance, these materials aren’t simply stumbled upon, they’re collected only by daluks who share a deep connection to the land and knowledge of how to care for it.
Out on country, the daluks gather pandanus and a melange of roots, flowers and leaves which they use to create twine and intensely vibrant natural dyes. Whilst collecting these materials, they listen to the land, only taking what is ready to be picked or pruned. The artists draw inspiration from traditional fibre works and techniques, with objects taking the form of ‘Marebu’s’ (woven mats), Mandjabu’s (fish traps) and Djerrh (Dilly bags).
The opening night is Thursday 25 May from 6-8pm. There will be a Welcome to Country from Aunty Di and a speaker named Louise Hamby who worked on the ‘Twined Together’ project with Injalak many years ago.
