In the lush rainforests of northern Queensland, a unique, body-shaped tool with holes for eyes has been keeping Indigenous communities warm on chilly nights for countless generations. This ancient fire-starter, known as the Bagu, is now generating heat of a different kind as it takes the international art world by storm, with giant sculptures adorning the Cardwell foreshore and captivating tourists from around the globe.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Bagu: A Cultural Treasure Rediscovered

The Bagu's Enduring Legacy

The Bagu represents the rich cultural heritage of nine traditional owner groups from the Hinchinbrook region. Traditionally, these tools were crafted from boogadilla, a soft milky pine wood, which was perfect for starting fires. The friction created by the Jiman, a long, cylindrical piece of wood from the mudja, or hardwood from a guava tree, would produce a coal that could then be used to ignite a full fire. Today, the Bagu figures that grace galleries across the country and overseas are primarily made from elaborately decorated clay, preserving the essence of this ancient tradition.

The Bagu's Artistic Evolution

The making and use of the Bagu was originally reserved for men, but in recent years, a meeting among elders has opened the door for women to create these unique artworks. The contemporary Bagu sculptures have evolved, with artists incorporating a wide range of creative elements, from floral designs to Spiderman-inspired motifs. This artistic evolution has allowed the Bagu to transcend its traditional form, while still maintaining a strong connection to the cultural roots that define it.

The Bagu's Global Reach

The Bagu has become a symbol of the Girringun Art Centre, and its reputation has soared both nationally and internationally. In 2016, ten giant Bagu sculptures were installed outside Monaco's Oceanographic Museum as part of an exhibition highlighting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks. This global exposure has helped to challenge the common perception that Indigenous art is limited to dot paintings from the Northern Territory, showcasing the diverse and distinctive styles that exist across Australia.

Reigniting Ancient Skills

Beyond the Bagu, the Girringun Art Centre has become a hub for reviving forgotten traditional skills. Girramay man Abe Muriata, for instance, has made it his mission to revive the lost craft of making Jawan, a traditional basket, and Wungarr, a traditional eel trap. By visually deconstructing the form of these intricate woven artifacts, Muriata has been able to remaster the techniques and pass them on to the younger generation, ensuring that these ancient skills are not lost forever.

Weaving Old and New

The revival of traditional weaving techniques at the Girringun Art Centre has not only preserved cultural heritage but also allowed for the integration of contemporary materials and designs. Artists like Erica Muriata use a variety of modern materials, such as plastic, to create baskets that blend the old and the new. This fusion of traditional and contemporary elements has breathed new life into these ancient art forms, making them relevant and accessible to a wider audience.

Connecting Generations through Art

The Girringun Art Centre's mission extends beyond simply producing and selling art. It aims to serve as a bridge between elders and the younger generation, facilitating the transfer of traditional knowledge and skills. By providing a safe and supportive space, the centre empowers artists to tell their stories, share their traditions, and pass them on to the next generation, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of the region is not lost.

The Bagu's Spiritual Significance

The Bagu holds deep spiritual significance for the Indigenous communities of the Hinchinbrook region. According to elder Philip Denham, the Bagu is believed to contain a "little man" inside that creates the fire. This belief imbues the Bagu with a sense of mysticism and power, and Denham suggests that if one "mucks around with him, a fire will show you its power." This spiritual connection to the Bagu has been an integral part of the cultural traditions of the region for generations.

The Bagu's Transformative Power

For many Indigenous artists, the Bagu has become a source of personal transformation and artistic expression. Phillip Denham, for instance, only began creating art at the age of 60, following heart surgery. The Bagu provided him with a calming and introspective outlet, allowing him to explore his cultural connections and deepen his understanding of his heritage. This transformative power of the Bagu has inspired countless artists to embrace their creative passions and forge a deeper connection to their roots.