I am currently writing up the last sections (almost there!) of the literature review, which is an essential component of the museum plan structure. I am partway through researching the heritage of the region, for which I have to also incorporate the Indigenous heritage as well. Reading about it is particularly interesting, as I previously didn't have much knowledge of it. The Wiradjuri people, the largest indigenous nation in NSW, had the most unique customs, including the carving of trees to mark burial sites. As settlement occurred in the mid 19th century, it should be no surprise that many of these trees were destroyed to make way for urban centres, forestry and general destruction of the landscape. Less than 100 of these trees still exist in their original sites, with the carvings facing the burial site to warn passersby that the site holds spiritual significance.
I found this to be particularly interesting, which surprised me to be perfectly honest, as indigenous art forms, etc has never had an immediate impact on me. I am really enjoying researching this and then recognising the juxtaposition of reporting on indigenous heritage, immediately followed in my review by settlement heritage, which focusses a lot on the Gold Rush of the 1850s. I guess the destruction of one culture has often meant, historically speaking, the thriving and survival of another.
Considering all of this, and I guess many modern and contemporary art institutions, it is a good thing that the traditional Aboriginal landowners are taken into consideration in this museum plan, as they rightly should be. Museums are, after all, a place where we can learn from history.
Hi Em,
ReplyDeleteI think this is a very profound post! It has definitely stuck a cord with me. I often feel that I don't have as much emotion towards contemporary indigenous art but rather feel more strongly about the artworks of historical significance.
Where a bouts is the museum to be placed? Within the township or is it more remote?
It makes me sad that there's so much we haven't seen of other cultures because it has been destroyed.
Hey Liz,
DeleteThe museum will be in the centre of the regional city, which originally (before settlement in the mid 1800s) belonged to the Wiradjuri Aboriginal Nation. So, the museum itself won't be in a remote location, but it will hopefully include exhibitions that document the history of the place, tracing it back to indigenous origins.
I know what you mean as well - I'm not usually partial to traditional indigenous art, however the history and reading about past stories is really fascinating stuff.
Knowing the history of a place seems very important, especially when you try to do meaningful thing with the place, at the place, in the place. Understanding the history of a place create a connection between the place, which has existed, and us, who newly situated at the place.
ReplyDeleteResearching history of the place looks very valuable Emily. I hope it gives a great inspiration not only for the establishment of the museum, but also other programs and exhibitions in the future at the museum.
Where is it Em?
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