Last week, our journey along the East Coast of Tasmania unfolded into an extraordinary adventure, one deeply rooted in tradition and cultural practices.
We had the unique opportunity to learn traditional seaweed basketry and weaving,
The energy was powerful as we delved deep into the rich heritage of the Palawa people and their intrinsic connection to seaweed and saltwater country.
The art of seaweed basketry, once a cornerstone of daily life, represents a harmonious blend of functionality and beauty. These meticulously crafted fibre baskets speak volumes of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Palawa people.
Utilized for various purposes—from water carriers to carrying stone tools and ochre in elegantly closed-stitched baskets to collecting shellfish in the larger —these creations were indispensable to the traditional way of life.
But their significance extends beyond mere practicality, embodying the aesthetic splendor and spiritual essence of our culture deeply connected with nature.
Our foray into this traditional craft was not just a learning expedition; it was a journey of reconnection and revival. Not only did we delve into the physical techniques of basket weaving, but we tapped into the stories and philosophies embedded within each twist and knot. It's a humbling reminder of how much wisdom is held in these ancient practices and how vital it is to preserve them.
I am immensely proud to have been part of an initiative that not only relearns lost history but actively works towards reconnecting this cultural knowledge across the East Coast of Australia, tracing our saltwater songlines.
I am deeply grateful for this journey and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.
Pictured below a seaweed basket & pouch I made from Bull Kelp from Pirates Bay TAS
#CulturalHeritage #IndigenousKnowledge #PalawaPeople #Tasmania #SeaweedBasketry #CulturalPreservation #SaltwaterSonglines
