Exploring the disrupting effects of light pollution on the environment and cultural knowledge, Bangarra’s new work, Illume, delves into the traditional Bardi and Jawi practice of pearl shell-carving. Darrell Sibosado, a Goolarrgon Bard man, carries on this ancestral practice in Djarindjin/Lombadina, Western Australia, drawing inspiration from the stories and symbols passed down by his Old People.
Learning about carving, stories, and symbols from his community, Sibosado has evolved the traditional art of riji into contemporary installation works using metal and light. His intricate designs on guan represent the scales of Aalingoon, the Rainbow Serpent, holding ancient knowledge and beliefs. These symbols, though ancient, appear fresh and unfamiliar to the world, despite their millennia-old existence.
Collaborating with choreographer Frances Rings, Sibosado brings his visual language to life in Illume, a full-length choreographic work that merges choreographic and visual art perspectives. The production explores the impact of artificial light pollution on Indigenous peoples’ celestial knowledge and connections to the land, touching on navigation, agriculture, and traditional practices.
Incorporating nine sections, Illume conveys complex themes through lighting, costumes, music, and set design overseen by Sibosado. The production aims to embody Goolarrgon Country and the Bardi and Jawi cultural stories while bridging the physical and spiritual realms. Rings, the artistic director of Bangarra, ensures Sibosado’s work shines through every element of the performance.
For Sibosado, the collaboration with Bangarra has been a journey of honoring tradition while embracing innovation. His shift to working with light reflects his dedication to preserving the iridescence of pearl shells and ancestral wisdom. The production not only celebrates his roots but also propels his art into a contemporary space, transcending time and aesthetic boundaries.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Rings emphasizes the unique energy and power of Sibosado’s monochromatic works, which evoke a deep sense of connection to Country. The synergy between choreography and visual art in Illume creates a captivating experience that intertwines ancient traditions with contemporary aesthetics.
As Illume premieres at the Sydney Opera House and embarks on a national tour, Sibosado’s vision of honoring the past while navigating the present shines through the production. The work stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Indigenous artistry and storytelling, inviting audiences to contemplate the interplay between light, culture, and environmental stewardship.
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