Inspired by totems and the animal world

For Indigenous Australians, the environment and all its beings are intimately and inextricable connected. There is an animistic kinship with nature, the environment and all living beings. The Law and totemic systems ensure balance is maintained and country respected and cared for.

Over the years, Bangarra's repertoire has been inspired by the powerful relationships between First Nations people and animal totems through works such as Mathinna's Mutton Bird, Moth from Bush and Brolga.

Here, these three works are highlighted through galleries of images and a video Bangarra originally edited for an exhibition called Wild Things: Animals On Stage. Curated by the Arts Centre's Gallery in Melbourne (2011), this exhibition explored the way animals are portrayed in dance and theatre.