Songline: A celebration of Bundjalung and Gumbayngiirr culture and heritage
29 May 2023
A visually striking new exhibition now on display at NSW Parliament House will immerse visitors in the stories, imagery and heritage of the Bundjalung people.
Open from 30 May to 27 July, Songline showcases a collection of works by Northern Rivers-based artist Kim Healey, who has forged a reputation for her powerful storytelling through different art mediums.
“This exhibition is a series of mixed media on canvas that explores Bundjalung culture and connection to country,” Ms Healey said.
“My work uses a contemporary palette and modern designs, and I’m interested in the ways colour, light and shadow can work together to deepen meaning and engage the audience in a story. The pieces on display at Parliament House are a timeline to the creation stories and I hope that visitors to Songline leave the exhibition with a greater appreciation of the beauty and richness of Bundjalung culture.”
The exhibition is being hosted at Parliament by the President of the NSW Legislative Council, the Honourable Ben Franklin.
“Kim has contributed to many art exhibitions, undertaken commissions, been involved in public artwork and has received awards for her work,” Mr Franklin said. “Living on the Bundjalung land myself, I am proud that Kim holds a strong connection to her heritage through the Gumbayngiirr and Bundjalung people.
“Songline is a moving and imaginative exhibition. I encourage visitors to Parliament House to spend some time at the Reconciliation Wall and allow Kim’s beautiful work to transport you to Bundjalung country.”
This year celebrating 25 years since its inauguration, the Reconciliation Wall is located in the Fountain Court and is part of the Parliament’s commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Throughout the year, it features exhibitions showcasing the art and stories of Indigenous people and communities from across the state.
Songline is open at NSW Parliament House (6 Macquarie Street, Sydney) on weekdays, 9am to 5pm, until 27 July.
Entry to the exhibition and Parliament is free.
Those unable to see the exhibition in person can see the works online via www.bit.ly/events-and-exhibitions.
