"The spirit of our Ngambri (Kamberri) ancestors and old people is in the trees. The old trees on ANU campus help keep the peace. Trees help anchor our identity and belonging to Country, they hold knowledge, nurture and maintain the wellbeing of our people, plants, animals and stories. Trees help maintain lore and custom. They are our physical and spiritual guardians. They inform us how to be on Country. It's a story that is part of the truth-telling of our ancestors and Country. The contemporary markings of trees on Country and on ANU campus grounds is about many things, including a 'right over might' approach - a right for our ancestors, elders and families to be acknowledged, respected and honoured." (Paul Girrawah House)

Paul Girrawah House, Ngambri-Kamberri and Ngunnawal custodian, will undertake the traditional practice of tree carving -- where the bark of a eucalypt is carved or removed to create cultural objects such as shields and coolamons.

This art commission initiative is part of the ANU School of Culture, History & Language's ongoing commitment to working with and learning from First Nations peoples and arts practitioners.

You are welcome to come and observe the tree-carving process and ask Paul about his tree-carving practice during the week preceding the tree-carving launch on Friday 3 November.

Please note that the launch will coincide with a symposium on Arboreal Alterations, being held on 2 and 3 November.

Registration is required for this event.