Courtesy the artists and Garuwa Creative

baban darrang is ‘mother tree’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri-willam peoples on whose lands the Parkville campus stands. baban darrang explores the ways we embody, grow, nurture and transmit knowledge and culture over time, and how we do this both on an individual and community level through honouring our Ancestors. This digital work, directed by award-winning Worimi artist Genevieve Grieves, celebrates the journey of Wurundjeri-willam / Dja Dja wurrung / Ngurai illum wurrung woman Mandy Nicholson.

baban darrang reflects on Mandy's journey of seeking out and connecting with knowledge throughout her life. In striving to revive culture and language, Mandy has evolved to become a powerful knowledge-holder, standing tall and grounded in the strength she has gained through connecting with Country and Ancestors. Mandy shares this knowledge with her clan – with women and young ones – to nurture them on their journey to ground themselves, to grow tall and stay connected with Country, with culture, and to nurture one another.