Meet the maker: Baluk Arts

Baluk Arts is a not for profit Aboriginal arts organisation based in Mornington, Victoria. One of only two Arts Centres of its kind in Victoria, Baluk Arts is 100% owned by Aboriginal artists from Frankston, the Mornington Peninsula and greater Melbourne. Baluk artists are from diverse Aboriginal backgrounds from all over Australia and its artworks reflect themes of identity in a contemporary cultural context.  

Baluk is a local Boonwurrung word meaning ‘many’ or ‘group of’ people, reflecting the diversity of its artists and their work. The South Eastern region of Australia is an area rich in traditional indigenous expression and Baluk Arts is ensuring the perseverance of a distinct, contemporary cultural aesthetic of the south east Victorian coast by encouraging community development, youth leadership, participation and interaction, and Indigenous governance through innovative arts practice.  

Highly original and innovative, the work produced by Baluk artists is sourced from the unique perspectives of Aboriginal Peoples with diverse origins, histories and experiences. The iconography and use of locally sourced materials such as ochres, native plants and animals allows the artists to explore their own art styles within the context of the Mornington Peninsula. 

Through Baluk Arts, family groups and members of the stolen generation have reconnected with their culture and express their histories through strong artistic practice to support their cultural and creative wellbeing.  

All income made by Baluk Arts go directly to artists and providing services and opportunities to the community through workshops, exhibitions, promotion and employment.  

Photo: Craft ACT