Kyra Mancktelow, Gubagulabu, 2022, bronze sculpture, 22 x 40 x 24cm. Courtesy: the artist and N.Smith Gallery.

“Gubagulabu” translates from Jandai language to “forever”, referencing the weaving technique being passed down from generation to generation. Once considered lost, this weaving technique is now cast in bronze — lasting forever.

Gubagulabu presents new work by Kyra Mancktelow featuring new unique bronze sculptures and unique impression prints. The artist’s well-used dillies call to the historic nature of a useful item while presenting a contemporary physical presence – bridging the past with her future through the continuation of First Nations culture.

In this series of sculptures and unique prints, Kyra used traditional Quandamooka weaving techniques that were made into woven dillybags to create unique bronze works that bring together traditional and contemporary materials to represent Indigenous peoples’ ability to adapt and be resourceful.