A COMPELLING exhibition of contemporary and traditional work from Millowl artist Steven Ulula Parker is a feature of NAIDOC Week at the Berninneit Art Gallery.
‘Warreeny Ngulu’ or ‘Ocean Voice’ showcases Parker's latest works including paintings, traditional objects and ceremonial and contemporary songline audio recordings.
A descendant of the Boonwurrung, Yorta Yorta, and Erub peoples, Uncle Steve Parker is not only an accomplished local artist but also a respected cultural educator and surfer.
Through Warreeny Ngulu Parker invites audiences to engage with the healing nature of Millowl exploring traditional themes that resonate deeply with his ancestral roots.
“People need to tune into their own murran marrup (body and spirit),” said Steve.
“The land has been walked on for thousands of years and the more you connect in a deeper way to Country, the more Country and the Ancestors will show you.”
Uncle Steven Ulula Parker believes our songlines are still here.
“It’s about bringing them back to this part of Country where they have been lost.”
Painting on canvas, as well as contemporary objects such as surfboards and skateboards Parker’s work has wide appeal to a diverse range of audiences.
Living in Surf Beach since 1999 Steve Parker is a keen surfer and surf instructor.
Growing up in Warragul (dingo) and Buln Buln (lyrebird) Steve Parker has a deep connection to Country.
“My grandfather’s Country is Torres Strait.
“My Grandmother’s Country is Yorta Yorta and Boonwurrung."
A video of Parker’s work and songline audio recordings are central to the exhibition.
“I love all the works, but I really love street art,” said Steve.
“I surfed The Pines and reshaped boards lying out the back of my home,” he said.
Steve Parker is committed to protecting the environment.
“Everybody needs to think about the impact they have on the earth and what they’re leaving for their great, great grandchildren.”
“Micro-plastics are a major threat to the marine life in our backyard.”
Warreeny Ngulu (Ocean Voice) is open 10am to 4pm daily until July 20 and entry is free.
Berninneit Art Gallery opened in 2023 as Bass Coast Shire’s first purpose-built exhibition space attracting the very best in contemporary art to the Bass Coast.
The gallery offers a welcoming space for community engagement, exploration and enjoyment of contemporary art, regional and First Nations exhibitions.
