Monograph: Dr Deanne Gilson

‘My Ancestors…they’ve lived on this land, they’ve worked on this land, they’ve taken care of this land. For me, to draw upon their knowledge is very important.’ – Dr Deanne Gilson

The first instalment of the Library’s new short-format documentary series, Monograph, is on Dr Deanne Gilson, a proud Wadawurrung woman and artist whose work features in the Library’s latest exhibition, Creative Acts.

Deanne lives and works on her ancestral home in Ballarat. Her practice revolves around her spiritual connection to Country and her Creation story, drawn from her matriarchal line. She is inspired by the stories of her ancestors and their storytelling traditions, the pull of strong family connections, and by Wadawurrung Country itself.

Her practice is many things at once – it’s an act of defiance in the face of colonialism, a method of cultural preservation and revival, and a form education – both for herself, as she unearths more unknown histories and connections, and for others.

‘When I create my artwork, not only am I connecting to ancestral stories and knowledge, I’m [also] creating something for my children and grandchildren and their children and beyond, so that it’s never lost again,’ she says. 

In Creative Acts, Deanne presents Bundjil the Eaglehawk and Creator of Kulin Country’s depiction of the Wadawurrung Creation story – from spirit form to life and back to spirit form again, as stars in the night sky.

View Bundjil Morrgalyu Turt Barram Murrup, Bundjil and the Evening Star Spirits, 2024–25, in Creative Acts until 31 May 2026.

About the series

Monograph is a series of creative short-format documentary films that convey the humanity and passion surrounding the Library and its diverse activities. The series title refers to the singular focus of each film – a brief but deep dive into a person’s life, their work and their connection to the Library.

Credits

A film by Creative Studio, State Library Victoria
Featuring: Dr Deanne Gilson
Cinematographer: Christopher Miles
Manager, Exhibitions and Experience Design: Michelle Moo
Project Curator: Angela Bailey
Chief Digital Officer: Paula Bray
Head of Creative Studio: Mike Daly
Digital Content Lead: Yeoseop Yoon