kurun warun
Kurun Warun, recognized as Hissing Swan, originates from Gunditjmara country in South Western Victoria. This area is delineated by the Hopkins River to the east, the Southern Ocean to the south, Mount Dundas and Mortlake to the north, and the Glenelg River to the west. Mr. Warun’s matrilineal heritage is directly linked to Truganini, the last known Tasmanian Queen. He is a committed painter who initially received tutelage and support from his mother, an accomplished artist who was a student of Clifton Pugh, a distinguished three-time winner of the Archibald Prize.
Born in 1966, Kurun first displayed his works at the age of eight. He conceptualizes his art as traditional Aboriginal narratives represented in a contemporary context. Each of his works possesses traditional significance and incorporates specific symbols with the consent of the Guditjmara Tribal elders. The surface narrative elements, referred to as the paintings' “stories” or “Dreamings,” constitute only one of the many layers of meaning inherent in the artwork. His imagery embodies a profound cultural resonance that often eludes straightforward interpretation. While only those who are initiated can fully comprehend the significance of these works, other viewers may intuitively perceive the power and beauty of this spiritual resonance, embarking on a journey of exploration and understanding over time.
Kurun Warun served as the leader of the Aboriginal dance troupe, Toolumby Waddama, which toured internationally to present their distinctive style of dance. His engagement with art, dance, and didgeridoo performance significantly transformed his life and broadened his perspectives. Kurun has performed in various prominent locations, including Rome, Milan, and Korea, and he was a featured artist at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. Furthermore, he has made appearances on NBC television in the United States and has showcased his unique didgeridoo sound for notable figures such as Chelsea Clinton, the daughter of former President Bill Clinton, as well as Oprah Winfrey at the Sydney Opera House.
Kurun Warun narrates the historical relationship of the Gunditjmara people with the ocean, emphasizing their intricate connection to this vital resource. It describes the pathways utilized by individuals for hunting, food gathering, and commuting, which are traditions passed down through generations by the Elders. A foundational belief of the Gunditjmara people is that responsible stewardship of water bodies will yield reciprocal benefits.
The accompanying painting depicts a long sandbank extending from the mainland. The white dots along the sandbank's edge illustrate the breaking waves. The circular formations represent fish traps established by the men, while the orange tones signify the diverse forms of marine life, including fish, sharks, and stingrays. This artwork encapsulates the cultural and ecological significance of water to the Gunditjmara community.
