222082307429

Published by CompNet Systems on



Dhaagun – Ashes

In the continuation of “Garraba – Body,” I present “Dhaagun – Ashes,” a meditation on the cyclical nature of existence and the connection between all forms of life. This piece delves deeper into the essence of our being, exploring the concept of matter and energy as infinite, continually transforming from one state to another.

“Dhaagun”, Wiradjuri word for ashes, a powerful symbol of both end and beginning. Ashes are what remain after the fire, a reminder of the transience of form and the perpetuity of substance. In this piece, I seek to illuminate the reality that we, as living beings, are part of an eternal cycle. We are born, we live, we die, and in death, we return to the earth, our essence re-joining the elemental dance fundamental particles.

Our existence is a testament to the intricate connection between us and Country. The earth beneath our feet, the air we breathe, the plants that nourish us, and the animals that share our world—all are composed of the same basic elements. We are not separate from our surroundings; we are an integral part of the cosmos, participating in a continuous exchange of matter and energy. I reflected on the impermanence of form and the constancy of essence. We are matter; we are energy. From what we were, we will return. In our perpetual transformation, we find our infinity.

Name: Tarn Parker


Language: Wiradjuri



Biography:

Tarn was born and nurtured on Wiradjuri Country in Wagga Wagga. She currently lives and creates on Yorta Yorta Country with her two children.
In 2014, Tarn joined Kaiela Arts and was taken under the wing of Gamilaraay artist Uncle Eric Brown.
 
A self-taught contemporary artist, Tarn enjoys painting, drawing and printmaking. Her artistry extends to larger canvases as well, with her hand bringing vibrant murals to life. Notable among these is a remarkable 12.5-meter “brain scan” mural, a kaleidoscope of colour and concept, which drew the attention of the ABC in a mini-documentary in 2021.
 
For Tarn, art has always been a vessel for expressing her ties to Country and family. Her pieces often carry heavy celestial vibes, undertones of feminism, politics, and tradition.
 
Tarn has collaborated with screen printing studio Spacecraft since 2018 where her designs made their way onto fabric for Design Roots 2. The momentum continued with Design Roots 3 – “Identity” in 2019, a selection that propelled her work to the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and the Country to Couture Fashion Show. Her designs were featured in the NGV and Vogue Australia online.
 
Tarn also worked closely with other Kaiela artists to create “Yalka Lotjpa Nha”, a children’s Yorta Yorta language book.
 


© the artist / art centre