Wadawurrung artist Deanne Gilson joined Vanessa Morris on Banksia to discuss exhibition 'Yin Yin Yonbarra — Song Birds' which depicts a Wadawurrung Creation Story with each of the birds created by Bundjil.

Deanne spoke about the significance of birds and bats featured, as well as the materials used to create the paintings including charcoal, ochres, acrylic pain and gold.

As the second exhibition in the Daine Singer space, Deanne explained the importance of the symmetrical presentation of the painted birds within the gallery space, where birds are known to have partners.

Yin Yin Yonbarra — Song Birds is at Daine Singer in Brunswick until 15 March

Image: Karringalabil Murrup - The Creator Spirit - Bundjil’s Birds, 2023
charcoal from Marlene Gilson’s fire, white ceremonial ochre, silver leaf, acrylic on canvas. Photograph: Andrew Deutscher