Creativity , technology and culture
8 .
( Re ) activating First Nations heritage for Indigenous futurity
Ngatilka ( Australia ), Milpirri 2007 . Artists performing , from left to right : Judy Napangardi Martin , Lynette Napangardi Tasman , Anita Napangardi Johnson , Gloria Napangardi Dixon , Ursula Napangardi Marks , Renee Napangardi Dixon , Biddy Napangardi Raymond , Kathy Napanangka Wardle ( Wave Hill ), Tamara Napangardi Johnson . © Lajamanu Community and Tracks Dance Company . Photo : Peter Eve .
The problem
How can collaborative research partnerships support First Nations Aboriginal community-driven initiatives for language and culture futurity , including the more intangible cultural heritage of song , dance and ceremony ?
Our solution
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Warlpiri Elder and founding Creative Director of the biennale Warlpiri experimental ceremony Milpirri , Wanta Steve Patrick Jampijinpa , says that engaging with community is vital to promote collective responsibility for Indigenous heritage and futurity through the creation of living community memories . He models bicultural , bilingual and two-way Aboriginal learning through active intergenerational community participation through Milpirri . The Milpirri festival began in 2005 and is co-produced with Tracks Dance Company . The intercultural collaboration between Tracks and Lajamanu community represents one of the longest sustained community arts partnerships in the Central and Western deserts , dating back to 1987 .
The festival is based upon Warlpiri distinctive forms of knowledge – on country , in place , by and for Warlpiri . Milpirri utilises intergenerational and intercultural learning through the concept of ngurra-kurlu or becoming one with country , with kin , with language , with home , as Jampijinpa translates it . Four generations organise the hybrid multi-platform event . Children develop and perform original bilingual songs and hip hop , rap and break-dancing based upon Jukurrpa [ the Dreaming ], which are performed alongside Elder community members ’ performances of ceremonial dance .