Story Behind the Piece:
During my time with the Awabakal and Worimi people on the east coast, I learned about Gurluk, the red whale. Unlike the arid lands of Martu Country, where the sands stretch wide and the skies are vast, Gurluk belongs to the saltwater stories of coastal nations. Her story is one of immense journeys, gliding through oceans like a silent guardian, her presence shaping the waters and carrying the wisdom of generations.
The patterns in this painting reflect the flowing currents of her world, drawn from the knowledge the Awabakal and Worimi people shared with me. The bold reds echo the sunsets over the sea, while her eye, ever-watchful, symbolizes the spirit of connection—between people, land, and ocean. Though the Martu have no oceans on their Country, this whale’s story resonates as a bridge between two vastly different worlds, reminding us of the importance of shared knowledge and mutual respect.
Through Gurluk, I carry a piece of what was gifted to me by the Awabakal and Worimi. This painting is not just about the whale but also the journey of learning, of stepping into another’s stories with reverence, and of bringing those lessons home to honour and preserve them.
Availability:
This artwork has been sold, but may Gurluk inspire you to embark on your own journeys of listening, sharing, and connecting, no matter where the path—or the water—may take you.
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