LILY THOMAS-MCKNIGHT
”BIIYIRRI (BACKBONE)”

MANNING, LEVEL 1 (2022)

Lily Thomas-Mcknight, Biiyirri (Backbone), 2022. installation view, dimensions variable. Photography by Rachel Lai.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Biiyirri (Backbone) reflects on the importance of identity for First Nations peoples in a Western world. The series of charcoal and monoprint portraits depict songlines, mapping out the state of minds of the individuals represented regarding their cultural identity. Trace monoprinting and charcoal drawing are predominantly Western practices. I wanted to use a Western means of production in order to create a cultural work that comments on how Western influence has impacted Indigenous identity. The ghost prints in which the songlines fade into the background comment on how cultural knowledge and practice has been lost as a result of colonisation but also the notion of Aboriginality and the questioning of an individual’s cultural heritage.

Lily Thomas-Mcknight, Biiyirri (Backbone), 2022. installation view, dimensions variable. Photography by Rachel Lai.

Lily Thomas-Mcknight, Biiyirri (Backbone), 2022. installation view, dimensions variable. Photography by Rachel Lai.

Verge Projects is a platform that aims to strengthen the University of Sydney community and networks through on-campus art activations. Verge Projects delivers community engaged projects led by and in collaboration with student and student groups. Stepping outside of art faculties and spaces, this program encourages inclusive and creative experiences campus wide.