Art is more than just colours and shapes; it's a story, a feeling, and an expression of profound thoughts. Aunty Janet Turpie - Johnston, a distinguished Aboriginal artist, scholar and Elder, offers an exploration of human connection to the land in her latest series of paintings at Mullum Mullum Blak Arts Exhibition and allowed us to video her providing EMPHN Community Forum participants an explanation of her works. With a focus on engagement with the coast, the first set of artworks bring forward a unique perspective on the relationships between humans, the land, and the ocean and we are proud to have her permission to use this painting on the front cover of the community report to the EMPHN’s second community member’s forum.

Playing in the Shallows

Aunty Janet's coastal paintings are not just about the beautiful ocean or fascinating landscapes; they are an ongoing study. As she playfully engages with patterns, breaking them apart and weaving them back together, she brings to life the story of playing in the shallows of the Ocean near Portland in Victoria.

An Abstract Connection

The artwork titled "Marvellous Melbourne" explores human relations to the country, an abstract born from Aunty Janet's research. The connection with water, the ocean, and the vulnerability of the landscape reflect a profound consideration of how the land is treated and perceived.The essence of the painting is searching for Bunjil in the landscape.

The Impact of Colonial Invasion

The influence of a global colonial invasion between 1835 and 1855. The devastation of these two decades and the ripple effect through to the current day is the central theme of this painting. Aunty Janet emphasises the incredible fragility of both coast and river. Her work bears witness to the devastation of the landscape, the multi species impact of a kilometre of an English channel carved out of Birrarung, the horror stories and the toxicity of the industrialisationof the rivers, and the plight of a land decimated by consumptive extractive industries.

Mapping Boundaries and Spirit of the Country

The paintings also explore the concept of boundaries and the impact of human activities on the natural environment. Through her choice of maps and symbolic representations, Aunty Janet addresses the assault on nature and the uncovering of the spirit of the country. Her flipped map of Melbourne, resembling a large bird with a gaping beak, gasping for life, offering a poignant view of what the colonists have done, "killing off" the spirit country.

Reflection on Human Impact

Aunty Janet's art is a sombre reflection on what increasing human population has done to the country. The temporary nature of city development, the ephemeral existence of skyscrapers, and the relentless demands on the country are all captured in her deliberate and intricate artistry and in her unfinished painting.

Conclusion

Aunty Janet's presentation and painting series serve as a profound reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the environment. Through her playful interactions with patterns, careful abstraction, and keen observations of historical and contemporary impacts on the land, she offers a perspective that resonates deeply with anyone who takes the time to truly engage with her art. We are proud to have her work on the cover of this year’s report.

These works stand as a testament to the beauty and fragility of our coastline, the significance of our connection with water and land, and the importance of responsible stewardship of these precious resources.

Thank you, Aunty Janet, for sharing your vision and inspiring us all to reflect on our relationship with the natural world. Your paintings are not just beautiful pieces of art; they are conversations, questions, and invitations to explore a deeper understanding of our place in the world.

Aunty Janet's Artistic Journey: Engaging with the Coast and Exploring Human Connection with the Land