Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the Gum Tree

Features Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists. Covering colonial, twentieth century and contemporary periods.

The exhibition Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the Gum Tree explores the gum tree as a source of creative inspiration and traces its evolution through art history and in contemporary art practice. The title, Ngarn Wa'ngal translates to 'breathing for us' in Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and has been chosen in consultation with Uncle Bill Nicholson.

This exhibition will explore our physical and emotional responses to this important Australian symbol, which inhabits many diverse environments across the continent. It brings together historical and contemporary connections to our iconic tree and be a catalyst for the discussion of issues including Indigenous sovereignty, Australian identity, climate change, and bushfire management.

This exhibition is curated by Alisa Bunbury and Sophie Gerhard and features works from the University of Melbourne’s Art and Medical History Museum collections, books and other material from Archives and Special Collections, as well as important loans and commissions of new works.

Levels: Year 7-10 and VCE

Duration: up to 90 mins

Capacity: up to 30 students

Cost: $16 per student. $50 education service fee applies to all bookings

Schools Access Program: Low-SES schools (ICSEA <1050) are encouraged to get in touch with the Learning Experiences team.

Curriculum Connections:

• VCE Art Making and Exhibiting
• VCE Art Creative Practice
• Visual Arts 7-10
• Intercultural Capability
• Critical and Creative Thinking

Related Content

Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the gum tree

Exploring the eucalypt as a source of creative inspiration tracing its influence through Australian art history and in contemporary art practice.

Professional resources

Learn how to engage students more deeply with the themes of the exhibition through these professional development opportunities for educators.

Plan your visit

Information and resources to help you plan your school excursion