The Mulka Project: Djarraṯawun
The National Gallery has commissioned a new projection and sound-based work by The Mulka Project to illuminate the building’s 60m façade for the 2023 Enlighten Festival.
Titled Djarraṯawun, the commission will be projected onto the complex architecture features of the National Gallery’s western façade. Djarraṯawun is a composite video/animation work portraying the elemental forces and life cycles of our world. The three major elements of Djarraṯawun are walu (sunlight), makarran (lightning) and gurtha (fire). These elements intertwine with songlines and atmospheric soundscapes immersing audiences in the Yolŋu world of Northeast Arnhem Land.
Working across video, animation and new media, The Mulka Project sustains and protects Yolŋu cultural knowledge in Northeast Arnhem Land under the leadership of community elders. The Mulka production house, recording studio, digital learning centre and cultural archive are managed by Yolŋu law and governance.
Curators: Bruce Johnson-McLean, Wierdi | Birri Gubba people, Barbara Jean Humphreys Assistant Director, First Nations Engagement and Head Curator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art; Kelli Cole, Warumungu/Luritja peoples, Curator, Special Projects, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art; and Peter Johnson, former Curator, Projects.
Viewer advice: Please be aware this work of art contains flashing lights, loud sounds and scenes depicting fire. Viewer discretion is advised.