DAVID ANDY - Girringun Art Centre | 'Bigin Necklace' | Wood / shell inlay

This style of timber rainforest shield is carved from hardwood was used in conjunction with the bagur (sword) to settle arguments during a brun (gathering). 

David Andy is a Djiru traditional owner from the Mission Beach area. Passionate about art, David continues to produce carvings and traditional objects; a practice that has been passed down from his elders. While David likes to follow traditions, he has started created artwork with contemporary materials, and implementing other natural materials like shells and seeds, collected from the beach near his home.  David creates small shields and swords consisting of natural materials; these objects reflect his strong connection to culture and country.

Established in 2008, the Girringun Art Centre is home to multi-award winning artists and craftsmen.

Located in Cardwell, Queensland, Girringun represents artists from nine Traditional Owner Groups: the Nywaigi, Gugu Badhan, Warrgamay, Warungnu, Bandjin, Girramay, Gulngay, Jirrbal and Djiru people.

The traditional country of these groups covers some 25,000 square kilometres of country in the state’s far-North. Objects from this country are significantly different from those of much of the rest of Australia. Weaving is done by both men and women, and the diversity of resources between land and sea have resulted in a vast array of implements being crafted for use.

A living functioning art centre, it is not unusual to see artists in the workshop developing new work and honing their craft. The stories and environments of this ancient culture are being transformed daily into visual images and designs by weavers, painters, potters, textile artists, and makers of traditional objects.

These artists bring to life the unique cultural story and expression of the distinctive Aboriginal rainforest art traditions and culture of the Girringun region, to share with the world.

DAVID ANDY - Girringun Art Centre | 'Bigin Necklace' | Wood / shell inlay | 10.5 (L) x 4.5 (w) cm