Surabaya - The Australian Consulate-General proudly presents an immersive digital installation art exhibition titled 'Walking Through a Songline' in the city of Surabaya as part of the 2023 NAIDOC Week celebrations (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee).
NAIDOC Week is commemorated annually in July in Australia to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Australia's Indigenous peoples, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Australia's Ambassador to Indonesia, Penny Williams PSM, stated, "NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity to learn about the culture and heritage of Australia's Indigenous peoples, which is the oldest and most enduring culture in the world."
The 'Walking Through a Songline' exhibition, curated by the National Museum of Australia in partnership with Mosster Studio, is a part of the internationally acclaimed exhibition 'Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters.' In the culture of Australia's Indigenous peoples, Dreamtime stories recount the tales of ancestral spirits who created the land and everything within it. Songlines, or Dreaming tracks, map the routes taken by these ancestral spirits as they journeyed across the land.
"We are thrilled to bring this international exhibition, 'Walking Through a Songline,' to Surabaya. It is a wonderful opportunity to introduce the culture of Australia's Indigenous peoples. We hope this exhibition will provide a deeper insight into the Indigenous culture of Australia," said Consul-General Fiona Hoggart.
The 'Walking Through a Songline' exhibition is open to the public free of charge and will run from August 1-17, 2023, at Ciputra World Surabaya, precisely at the Oval East Atrium – Ground Floor. The exhibition previously took place at the Jakarta History Museum from July 4-23, 2023, and will continue in Makassar and Bali.
This exhibition serves as a bridge for cultural exchange, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich and ancient heritage of Australia's Indigenous peoples. It not only showcases captivating digital installations but also fosters a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance and historical narratives embedded within the Songlines. As the 'Walking Through a Songline' exhibition journeys through various cities, it presents an invaluable opportunity for cross-cultural appreciation and learning.