The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) in the national capital is currently hosting an immersive digital exhibition titled Walking Through a Songline, which is captivating visitors of all ages with its rich storytelling and innovative technology. The exhibition, which runs from May 26 to June 30, takes viewers on a journey to the origin of the world, where survival in an unforgiving land required skills learned the hard way.
The exhibition focuses on the First Nations People of Australia and their ancient songlines, which are believed to be the oldest stories in the world. One of the most famous songlines featured in the exhibition is the Seven Sisters Dreamtime story, which follows the journey of the Seven Sisters as they evade their male pursuer, Wati Niru, and eventually transform into the Pleiades star cluster.
Using videos and digital installations, Walking Through a Songline brings to life the rich cultural heritage of the Australian aboriginal people. The exhibition features the artwork Travelling Kungkarangkalpa, created by visual artist Sarah Kenderdine, which is a central piece of the original Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters exhibition developed by the National Museum of Australia.
Director and chief curator of KNMA, Roobina Karode, highlights the importance of bridging ancient legacies with contemporary audiences through innovative multimedia and traditional storytelling. The exhibition aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of shared human heritage and the wisdom of ancient cultures.
Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters, which features the work of over 100 artists, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the epic Seven Sisters Dreaming tracks through art, indigenous voices, and immersive displays. The exhibition showcases the rich oral tradition of the Australian aboriginal people, dating back approximately 60,000 years.
Walking Through a Songline, which was first exhibited in Mumbai in April, will continue its journey to Bengaluru from Delhi, allowing more audiences to experience the profound narratives and cultural significance of the Australian aboriginal songlines. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing ancient traditions and stories for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Overall, Walking Through a Songline at KNMA is a must-see exhibition that offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the First Nations People of Australia and the significance of their ancient songlines. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this captivating exhibition before it moves on to its next destination.