Josh Muir, WAA series no.6 Bunjil’s two helpers, 2020. Digital print on aluminium, 115 x 115cm. (Unique Edition, 94.4 x 94.4 cm). Courtesy: the artist and MARS Gallery, Melbourne.

Josh Muir is a Ballarat-based multi media artist who produces panels printed on metal inspired by street art and hip-hop. This new body of work aims to convey stories and narratives of the local Indigenous communities surrounding the Merri Creek area, in particular the story of Waa. As a young Indigenous artist and a proud Yorta Yorta/Gunditjmara man, Waa holds totemic importance.

Born with pure white feathers, Waa tricked the seven Karatgurk women who guarded the secret to fire and stole their live coals to cook his own yams. Upon realising, the women called out, which attracted the attention of Bunjil. Bunjil asked his two nephews, Jert Jert and Thara, to chase after Waa and retrieve the sticks back. Waa flew so fast that one of the sticks caught fire and caused a bushfire which burnt Crow’s feathers permanently black.

MARS Gallery is currently closed in accordance with Stage 4 restrictions. However, the gallery is continuing to present exhibitions online. View the exhibition here.

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