Supported by the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR) and the Australian Government, this rare cultural exchange brings together two distinct artisan communities. Since 1989, the artists at Bábbarra Women’s Centre in Arnhem Land, Australia, have used linocut designs to tell ancestral Indigenous stories. Through this collaboration, we began translating their vivid art into the medium of woodblock printing. In early 2023, we had the privilege of hosting senior artists Janet Marawarr and Deborah Wurrkidj at our studio.
Despite language barriers, an immediate, seamless connection emerged as our artisans exchanged stories of traditional motifs, discovering a deep, shared bond with our respective landscapes. Our space was filled with the rhythm of hands creating together in a spirit of curiosity.
We are excited to continue this partnership into 2024 with a new collection of woodblocks and a traveling exhibition across India and Australia.