BIRABAHN Building the Art Collection

In 2023 the University of Newcastle celebrates forty years of the Wollotuka Institute and twenty years of residence in Birabahn, the eaglehawk inspired building that houses their institute on the land of the Pambalong clan.

The award-winning Birabahn building was a leader in First Nations architectural design principles* and consultation. To commemorate the forty year milestone, the building and its art collection have had a makeover. We are very pleased to share a suite of new works that will be curated into the existing collection.

The new installation shares stories through remarkable First Nations art practice from across Australia, the Torres Strait Islands, and closer to home. With works from celebrated artists such as Damien and Yilpi Marks, Elsie (Myapu) Thomas, Djakaŋu Yunupiŋu and a rare collection of Nada Tjigila Rawlins, this exhibition reinforces our commitment to building culturally safe spaces in the University and the celebration of the diversity of contemporary First Nations art.

We invite you to share the first view of the Birabahn Collection at Watt Space Gallery and will welcome our visitors to the official launch when it is installed as a permanent collection at the Wollotuka Institute.

* Architects Richard Leplastrier, Peter Stutchbuty and Sue Harper