Summer at Bundanon: Live Performances, Markets & First Nations Storytelling

Featuring live performances by renowned musicians Emma Donovan and Sarah Blasko, the inaugural Artists & Makers Market, and First Nations storytelling

Bundanon has announced Summer at Bundanon, a program of live events accompanying the major exhibition bagan bariwariganyan: echoes of country, a collaboration between renowned First Nations artists Jonathan Jones, Aunty Cheryl Davison and Aunty Julie Freeman.

This vibrant multi-disciplinary program includes performances by renowned Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan, multi ARIA award-winning singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko, Bundanon’s inaugural Artists & Makers Market, and talks with acclaimed authors Bill Gammage and Uncle Bruce Pascoe.

On 7 December 2024 Bundanon will host the inaugural Artists & Makers Market, bringing together a selection of handmade ceramics, textiles, weavings, and original artworks and prints from the region and beyond.

On 8 December 2024 Alexander Boyd, an internationally renowned classical pianist, composer, and the grandson of Arthur Boyd, returns to Bundanon to perform Schumann’s Sonata G minor Op.22 and Chopin’s Impromptus N.1 and N.2.

Yana Waridba (‘come play’ in Dhurga language) on 10–12 January 2025 sees a full weekend of programming headlined by Emma Donovan. Following a national tour for her highly anticipated album, Til My Song is Done, Donovan and her band will perform their trademark blend of soul, gospel and country music. Donovan is supported by Yuin choir Djinama Yilaga singing in Dhurga language.

The weekend also includes storytelling by Aunty Julie Freeman, weaving workshops with Aunty Deidre Martin, First Nations food experiences and cultural walks, and a talk between Jonathan Jones and award-winning author and historian Bill Gammage, who is well known for his research on complex systems of Aboriginal land management.

On 8 February 2025 Sarah Blasko will perform as part of her national album tour, I Just Need To Conquer This Mountain. Jonathan Jones, Aunty Julie Freeman and Aunty Cheryl Davison will host Breaking Bread with Friends, featuring a long lunch and in-conversation.

On 9 February 2025, celebrated author Uncle Bruce Pascoe joins Jonathan Jones for an in-depth discussion on the profound impacts of colonisation on people, place, and native foods, and an exploration of the rich, resilient history of Australia’s First Nations communities.

Across the summer, there is also the opportunity for guests to stay overnight in the award-winning eco-accommodation on the Bridge and immerse themselves in the live programming with The Bundanon Experience, a series of weekend stays running 7 – 8 December, 10 – 12 January and 8 – 9 February 2025.

To celebrate the newly opened Boyd Collection Gallery, Bundanon will also present a series of talks with artists and curators that unpack Arthur Boyd’s influence on his peers and the wider art world.

Rachel Kent, CEO, Bundanon, said: “Bundanon’s Summer of Live Programs for 2024-2025 has a strong focus on storytelling, learning, and knowledge sharing, with this year’s offerings placing a special emphasis on local Aboriginal perspectives. We are pleased and honoured to present a diverse range of events, from world-class live music and guided walks to workshops and talks led by esteemed cultural leaders. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in our live programs designed to inspire, connect, and deepen our understanding of the extraordinary Country on which Bundanon sits.”

Danielle Harvey, Head of Live Programs, Bundanon said: “Summer is a brilliant time to visit the South Coast. Come visit for a day or overnight and experience all Bundanon has to offer. Emma Donovan, Sarah Blasko and Alexander Boyd are musicians who are at the top of their game. These, alongside incredible storytellers, delicious local food, art making, markets and incredible views are just some of the reasons to take the trip!”

For more information visit, www.bundanon.com.au