Baanj Dayang (Rakali)

Artist
Murrup Biik

Client
Kingston City Council

Location
Mentone Lifesaving Club, Vic

Year
2024

Medium
Bronze, glass and concrete

Fabricators and partners
Fundere Foundry
Skyview Design & Build
Wathaurong Glass

Collide and public art partnership Murrup Biik (Aunty Kim Wandin and Christine Joy) collaborated on the design, creation and execution of an integrated artwork on the rooftop deck of the Mentone Lifesaving Club, Mentone.

Rakali, which means 'water mouse with golden belly', is a large semi-aquatic rodent living between freshwater and saltwater, linking the two aquatic environments and symbolising their interconnectivity. Rakali captures the essence of this playful intelligent animal that is resourceful and an excellent swimmer.  To Chris and Aunty Kim, rakalis symbolise resilience, playfulness and fun as it emerges from the water to chase its companion, resilience in face of threat and danger, adaptability as it navigates both fresh and saltwater habitats, and the vital role that a peak predator plays in stabilising ecological systems.

Managing communication between fabricators, suppliers, and installers, Collide oversaw each stage of production, including on-site coordination, troubleshooting technical challenges, and ensuring the final installation integrated smoothly with its environment.

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