Cushion Cover - Totem Birabaan Eagle

Birabaan - Eagle  

This artwork depicts the mighty Eagle Hawk or Wedge Tail Eagle, a much-revered totem of the Awabakal People.

Soaring high about the coast line of Muloombimba (Newcastle) and over the land of Awabakal, the Wedge Tail Eagle is held as the highest totem for tribal groups running down the East Coast of Australia.

Dreamtime stories of the strong and powerful Eagle Hawk acknowledge this majestic bird as a protector of culture and Aboriginal traditions.

Aboriginal tribal and clan groups each have a totem.  A totem is a natural object, plant or animal that is inherited by members of a clan or family as their emblem and the group is responsible for the stewardship of their totem.  My totem is the Wedge Tail Eagle.

Made from waterproof and UV50+ material, they are suitable for indoors & outdoors. Available in 45 x 45 cm with Bright Full Coloured Backs.

 

The cushion covers originate from a commission series in 2014 for Hunter Health

Tankaan Ngatan Bobong Series - Mother and Baby

Commission by Hunter New England Local District Health - Birra Li Aboriginal Maternal and Child Health Service in 2014, these 38 week pregnant belly casts of Aboriginal women from across the Hunter Valley are displayed throughout the services facilities.

This artwork celebrates the special journey of pregnancy, birth and motherhood. Each work is depicted on a uniquely crafted belly cast provided from our beautiful pregnant mums from across the region.

The blue, aqua and green ribbon flowing around the borders of the works, representing our region and communities by symbolising both the East Coast and the Hunter River.

Each artworks central figure is of an Australian native wildlife Mother and Baby. These animals, birds and fish are representative of the totems of Aboriginal tribes and passed down to babies at birth.