From next month, a flock of wire birds will hover above the shelves in Bendigo’s library.
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Pay special attention to their wings. One will feature a passage of text, written in the language in which it was originally communicated. The other will state its English equivalent.
Artist Stella Levak has invited members of the central Victorian community to contribute to the art project, to be launched during the Bendigo Festival of Cultures.
Whether it be lyrics to a song by an artist from their country of origin, or a passage from a book or sacred text, Ms Levak called on people to share a few words that were meaningful to them.
The art installation Many Songs One Heart was inspired by the idea that, despite their differences, people share universal needs and values: to be loved, to be valued, to belong, for instance.
“The different cultures, it’s on the surface only,” Ms Levak said.
“When one looks a little bit deeper, don’t we all share the same values?”
By showcasing those values, expressed in all the different cultures that make up our community, Ms Levak is hoping to promote understanding and lessen the fear of the unfamiliar, or unknown.
The European-born artist has an intrinsic appreciation for cultural diversity.
Pula, her home city, was formerly part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. After the First World War, it became part of Italy. Following the Second World War, it was part of Yugoslavia. These days, it’s part of Croatia.
Ms Levak’s grandfather has been issued with four passports, as the city’s nationality changed.
Ms Levak said Pula’s population was diverse, and even the street signs were bilingual.
Two free workshops have been arranged for people to contribute to Many Songs One Heart: one on Saturday, March 11, from 10.30am – 1.30pm at Bendigo Library; the other at the same time and location, but a week later, on Saturday March 18. Bookings are required and can be made at www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au.
Up to three people can work on each song bird.
The project will be launched on Tuesday, March 21, at the library from 3pm – 4pm. No bookings are required, and afternoon tea will be provided.
The 2017 Bendigo Festival of Cultures runs from March 18 – 26 and is an initiative of Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services.
Executive officer Noemi Cummings said the festival was an opportunity for culturally diverse groups to give back to the community, and for the community to come together and show that diversity is the mainstream and we live in harmony with respect and appreciation for each other.
“Some people might have the impression that Bendigo is not a welcoming city, but many of the communities we work with have had a very positive experience here,” she said.
Many Songs One Heart is sponsored by Capital Venue and Events and Central Goldfields Library.
The festival is made possible with the support of the state government, the City of Greater Bendigo, major sponsors the Bendigo Advertiser, Haven; Home, Safe and Arteria, and contributions from the community and central Victorian businesses.
Click here for more information about the program.