Becoming grounded in nature

AN innovative exhibition at the Lismore Regional Gallery uses film, sound installations and interactive artworks created in collaboration with Bundjalung Elders to highlight the importance of connecting with nature.

The exhibition, Grounded, features the works of Widjabul-Wiabul/Yaegl sound and performance artist Mitch King and artist and filmmaker Karenza Ebejer.

It continues King and Ebejer’s 2022/23 collaborative project, Our Place, Our Species, which celebrates Bundjalung cultural knowledge and connection to Country.

The exhibition allows audiences to engage with Bundjalung stories and the regenerative power of native bush plants.

King said it was important for First Nations stories to be heard and celebrated.

“Through this work, we are creating space for conversations about the interconnection between people and place, and the deep cultural knowledge that informs our understanding of these relationships,” King said.

“We want to highlight how these plants are more than just flora; they are integral to our community’s identity and wellbeing.”

Ebejer saw the exhibition as a way to share knowledge.

“Our work is about honouring the wisdom of Elders and sharing these stories in a way that fosters awareness and hope for a future where native bush plants are revitalised, and connection to Country is celebrated.”

Grounded also features interactive workshops that include hands-on experiences with native bush plants and discussions on ecological regeneration, inspired by the cultural knowledge shared through the exhibition.

From 11am on Saturday, Jenny Smith will hold an all-ages session at the gallery.

Smith is a descendant of the Widjabul/Wiabal, Nyangbal people of the Bundjalung Nation and the Yaegl Nation.

Her session explores nature through the use of watercolours on paper. From 2pm, Mitch King will host a workshop that will look at how to acknowledge the beauty and power of nature while becoming more grounded through movement and mindfulness.

Through the integration of movement, visualisation, and storytelling, the intention is to leave with a deeper understanding of Australia’s native bush plants and a revitalised sense of connection to nature.