Baluk Arts

Kelp Necklace with clear beads, 2023

$335.00

  • 32cm
  • 2023
  • Kelp
  • Catalog No: 56-172-23

Nannette Shaw is a Tyereelore Elder from Tasmania with ties to the Boonwurrung/Bunurong people of Southern Victoria.

Kelp is a material that is specific to and has been used by Tasmanian Aboriginal people for thousands of years. Kelp contains high levels of iodine, which may be why many of the ‘old people’ on the islands reportedly have few thyroid problems.  Bull kelp vessels were traditionally used to collect and store fresh water. It became a custom of Palawa women over many generations. Due to the devastation of Tasmanian Aboriginal culture and people during the 1800s and 1900s, many lives, languages and cultural practices (such as the art of kelp water container making) were lost.

Tasmanian Elders, including Nannette, are reviving this cultural practice of using Kelp for both water carriers and for jewellery, and sharing her cultural knowledge with current and future generations of Palawa people.  Nannette continues to harvest mainly on Bruny Island and Louisa Bay in the south west of Tasmania. This practice connects her to Country and culture, benefits her health and nourishes her soul. Nannette enjoys the sense of connection with her ancestors through her work.

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