Join us for an immersive afternoon of learning and making in this hands-on Kangaroo Bag Workshop, led by artists Nicole Monks and Charmaine Green.
In this unique session, participants will craft their own kangaroo bags using kangaroo pelts and emu feathers, while learning a range of traditional and contemporary techniques including stitching, lacing, weaving, and leather punching. Alongside skill-building, the workshop offers a rich opportunity for storytelling, cultural exchange, and knowledge sharing, grounded in First Nations practices of sustainability and deep connection to Country.
Open to all skill levels, this workshop invites you into a space of exploration, cultural respect, and shared experience. No prior experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided.
PARTICIPANTS
Nicole Monks is a multi-disciplinary creative of Yamaji Wajarri, Dutch and English heritage living and working on Worimi and Awabakal Country (Newcastle). Monks’ practice is informed by her cross-cultural identity, using storytelling as a way to connect the past with the present and future. Her works take a conceptual approach that are embedded with narratives and aim to promote conversation and connection. An award-winning designer and artist, Monks crosses disciplines to work with furniture and objects, textiles, video, installation and performance to reflect Aboriginal philosophies of sustainability, innovation and collaboration. Monks is founder of design practice blackandwhite creative and public art company mili mili.
Charmaine Green is a visual and installation artist, poet, and writer. She is a member of the Wajarri, Badimaya and Nhanagardi Wilunyu cultural groups of Yamaji Nation in Western Australia. Charmaine’s practice explores a strong sense of place linking her to Country. She has developed a contemporary style giving special importance to line work which she believes represents the work of her Ancestors in the Murchison and Midwest Region. Charmaine is represented by Yamaji Art Centre, Geraldton, Western Australia.
Marlu Workshop: Making Kangaroo Skin Bags for 'Barangga: First Nations Design' at UNSW Galleries, 2023.
Marlu Workshop: Making Kangaroo Skin Bags for 'Barangga: First Nations Design' at UNSW Galleries, 2023.
Marlu Workshop: Making Kangaroo Skin Bags for 'Barangga: First Nations Design' at UNSW Galleries, 2023.
Acknowledgement
Presented in conjunction with barangga: First Nations Design at UNSW Galleries, 17 June – 30 July 2023.
Tile and Banner Image
Miyarnuwimanha, 2021. Installation view, The Lock Up, Newcastle. Photography: Fourth Street Studio. Image courtesy of the artists.