Lightscape

Ornamental Lake today, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Artists: Various First Peoples Artists, Torch Project. Animation by NOVAK

The original path of the Birrarung (Yarra River) flowed through what is now Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and is now known as Ornamental Lake. For Lightscape we honour this legacy by transforming Ornamental Lake with artworks of freshwater animals sacred to First Peoples of  Australia.  Water Stories pays homage to the precious Birrarung (River of Mists in the local Woi-wurrung language) and all rivers that flow in this corner of the continent  –  Waterways bring life to Country, and these rivers are alive with culture, trade and lore.  They provide essential habitat to the myriad of plant and animal life that sustain us.

Here, in the mist above the water, animals like platypus, yabbies, and the mighty Murray Cod come to life, along with some found in this lake like turtles, ducks, frogs and eels.

These artworks were created through The Torch, a not for profit organisation, that provides art, cultural and arts industry support to First Nations people with lived experience of incarceration.

Originally acrylic paintings, the animals of Water Stories are brought to life with the animating talents of NOVAK.

NOVAK is a creative studio producing innovative and ambitious art and design projects. Specialising in video design and immersive experiences, this encompasses projection mapping, art and museum installations, stage visuals for music artists and video accompaniments for theatre, dance and events.

NOVAK’s work and skill sets seamlessly blend between their own innovative art installations and video designs created in collaboration with theatre directors, choreographers, museum curators and other creative associates.

Their art installations are often site-specific and on a grand and spectacular scale, that transforms and reimagines locations into extraordinary displays of colour and motion. These works explore a wide variety of themes, often including geographically relevant historic and cultural narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

NOVAK’s work within the realms of theatre and dance provides spectacular backdrops and immersive environments for performers to be enveloped within. Their arresting designs drive narratives, augment performances and greatly enhance audience experiences.

novak​.uk