Tegan Murdock
Tegan Murdock
Coolamon
Raffia, emu feathers, quondong seeds, (W) 50 x (L)120 cm
This woven piece pays tribute to the coolamon, a vital part of our culture. At its heart, you’ll find the coolamon, a vessel that carries food, water, and our little ones. As I wove this, I thought of my ancestors and how they used these dishes to provide for their families, gathering nourishment from the land.
The strands flowing from the coolamon represent the different journeys and stories these vessels carry. Each strand shows how coolamons have been used over generations, reflecting their deep cultural significance and vital role in supporting families and communities.
I've added quondong seeds and emu feathers to the artwork, symbolising our connection to country and the coolamon's importance in carrying bush tucker. Through this piece, I celebrate how coolamons enrich our lives and traditions.
Tegan Murdock is a renowned Barkindji artist and founder of Ngumpie Weaving, where traditional Indigenous weaving meets modern art. Her work honours her heritage, weaving Ancestral stories into her creations."Ngumpie," meaning "beautiful" in Barkindji, reflects Tegan's mission to showcase her culture's beauty through handcrafted pieces. Guided by her mother, Margaret, Tegan has created a collection of jewellery, wall art, and workshops that connect people to this ancient craft. Each creation tells a story, celebrating community, heritage, and the bond between people and the land.