WAC483/24 – Eddie Daylight

– 100 x 80 cm

This artwork by Eddie Daylight is a heartfelt tribute to his father, Mr. Gordon Barney, capturing the essence of a place that holds deep personal and cultural significance—Rockhole in la Birnoowoon Country. The story behind the artwork is one passed down through generations, shared by Mr. Gordon Barney, and embodies the beauty and spirit of his homeland.

As Mr. Barney recalls, Rockhole is not just a physical location; it is a living memory of family gatherings, sustenance, and connection to Country. “We use this rock hole for fishing,” he says, referring to the plentiful perch, or moot moot, that are caught here. Though small, they are delicious and vital to the family’s meals. The rockhole also served as a place of gathering, where the whole family would picnic and even bathe in its deep, clear waters.

For Mr. Barney, this place represents the heart of his country—Birnoowoon Country—a place of profound beauty and deep personal history. It is a location that speaks to the simplicity of family life, to connection, to sustenance, and to the natural rhythm of life that defines this beautiful, rich land.

Eddie Daylight’s artwork brings to life this treasured memory with vibrant colors and textures that evoke the spirit of Birnoowoon. The painting not only honors his father’s story but also the deep cultural ties that the Kija people share with their land. The words passed down from generation to generation, “Berrimbe gendewa dagoorlan birnoo gendang wiji ngerne,” echo in the artwork, reminding viewers of the enduring connection to land, language, and history.

In Eddie’s tribute, Rockhole in la Birnoowoon Country is not just a place on a map; it is a symbol of heritage, community, and love for the land that has nurtured and sustained his people for countless generations. This piece is both a personal memory and a cultural testament, ensuring the stories of his father and his ancestors continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.