“Walking Through a Songline” is a mesmerising digital installation that merges the ancient wisdom of Indigenous Australian Songlines with cutting-edge technology. Presented by the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and the Australian High Commission, this immersive experience, crafted by the National Museum of Australia and Mosster Studio, takes visitors on a profound journey through the rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture, offering a unique blend of storytelling, art and innovation says SAKSHI PRIYA
Stepping into ‘Walking Through a Songline’ feels like crossing the threshold into another world, one where ancient stories and modern technology converge in a harmonious dance. It feels surreal as it presents an impressive vision of a ‘Perfect World’. It feels like a soulful journey, offering a quiet, therapeutic way that allows the mind to wander into its own world.
The collaboration between the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and the Australian High Commission brings forth a groundbreaking digital installation, ‘Walking Through a Songline.’ Produced by the National Museum of Australia and Mosster Studio, this captivating experience promises to be a cultural journey like no other transforms the abstract into the creating an environment that is both surreal and profoundly real.
The installation, produced by the National Museum of Australia and Mosster Studio, centers around the captivating story of Naji, which originates from the Dreaming or Bugarregarre time. This narrative is a cornerstone of Aboriginal culture, detailing how spirit beings traversed a barren land, bringing life and water in their wake. As you walk through the space, these stories unfold through a series of stunning projections, enveloping you in a world that feels both timeless and immediate.
One of the most compelling aspects of this installation is its ability to evoke a sense of peace and introspection. The quiet, therapeutic atmosphere invites visitors to lose themselves in the journey, much like the spirit beings did as they traversed the land. Each projection is a doorway into a different facet of the story, each detail meticulously crafted to draw you deeper into the narrative. Visitors are taken on a journey through mesmerising projections that portray Songlines in an artistic and astonishing way. This immersive experience blends ancient knowledge with new technology, allowing visitors to sit quietly in front of each short film and feeling transported to another world. The calm and therapeutic nature of the installation resonates with everyone present.
The tale of the Seven Sisters, a highlight of the exhibition, is presented with a blend of awe and reverence. Known as Kungkarangkalpa, the story follows the sisters as they are pursued across the desert landscape by Wati Nyiru. The narrative is brought to life through vibrant paintings by First Nations artists, which are projected onto the walls, creating a dynamic and immersive visual experience. The transformation of the sisters into stars is depicted with a poignancy that speaks to the universal themes of resilience and transformation.
‘Walking Through a Songline’ does more than tell a story; it creates an experience that bridges the ancient and the modern. The use of cutting-edge digital technology allows for a multi-sensory journey through the Songlines, pathways of knowledge that map the routes of Ancestral creator beings. These Songlines are not just historical artifacts; they are living, breathing elements of cultural identity, imbued with values and practices that have been preserved through generations.
The installation also features a series of short films, each offering a unique glimpse into different aspects of Indigenous Australian culture. Films like ‘Footprints’ and ‘Bulunu Milkarri’ explore themes of cultural preservation and storytelling, highlighting the vital role that these narratives play in the survival and continuation of Aboriginal traditions. These films add a rich, personal dimension to the exhibition, allowing visitors to connect with the individual stories and experiences of the First Nations people.
As you move through the installation, the seamless blend of visual art and storytelling creates a tapestry that is both beautiful and profound. The projections, combined with a beautiful soundtrack, create an atmosphere that is both meditative and expressive. The voices of traditional custodians and knowledge holders resonate throughout the space, adding depth and authenticity to the experience.
The collaboration between the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and the Australian High Commission is a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange. By bringing this installation to a wider audience, they not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s First Nations people but also uphold a greater appreciation for the diversity and depth of Indigenous cultures worldwide.
‘Walking Through a Songline’ is more than an exhibition; it is an immersive journey that invites you to step into the heart of Aboriginal culture. It is a celebration of life, resilience and the timeless power of storytelling. As you leave the exhibition, the stories stay a reminder of the deep connections that bind us to the land and to each other. This installation is exploring the profound and enduring narratives that continue to shape our world.
