Right of initiation

This detail from Christopher Orchard’s ‘Mirrul’ artworks has been on my mind, specifically the removal of front teeth

As I thought about the idea I ran my tongue over those front chompers and reflected on the idea of biting more than one can chew.

This led me to wonder whether intiation for Wiradjuri men was accompanied with a lesson about not being greedy and to think of others when you hunt.

I recognise that knowledge is not my culture to know or share, but I feel like that lesson would be a good one in a world with limited resources. 

Orchard's artwork is currently exhibiting as part of the Ngurambang (Our Riverina) show at Griffith Regional Art Gallery until Sunday 20 August, when there'll be artist talks after 11am.