Aunty Kim Wandin's Murrup Biik, in collaboration with artist Chris Joy, is one of 2 artworks commissioned for the Metro Tunnel's eastern tunnel entrance in South Yarra, as part of the Legacy Artwork Program.
Located in the South Yarra Siding Reserve and Arthur Street pocket park, the artwork honours the location of a significant Aboriginal cultural site as a series of sculptures inspired by the Bilang, which means string bag in Woi Wurrung language.
The Bilangs represent Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung women, and acknowledges their journey across Country and work collecting food to provide for families and as Custodians of the land.
About the artwork
Murrup Biik – meaning ‘Spirit Country’ – aims to change the way people view Aboriginal artefacts and acknowledge that they are a living, breathing life-giving force with spirit and knowledge.
The artwork comprises 3 colourful sculptures placed across the Siding Reserve and Arthur Street pocket park in South Yarra.
Each sculpture features a patterned design of Murnong flowers, which represent the harvest collected by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung women of Victoria.
The sculptures are placed in various orientations within native planting. The colours represent ochre colours found across Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country, used to tell stories and practice ceremonies.
Artist statement
'Murrup Biik aims to create a sense of spiritual intrigue and transformative healing for passers-by and those standing fully in the sculpture’s presence. There will be an energetic exchange of giving and understanding.'
About the artists
