The 6th Canberra Art Biennial

"While generally meant as a slight responding to a person’s bloated ego, or something said during a confrontation caused by a newcomer’s bravado when in an established group’s place, ‘walking around like you own the place’ can also be seen as a positive survival tactic of self-assurance. Especially when you are an Indigenous person walking on your own country. The environment and everything in it – the land, animals and plants – are viewed as living kin. Standing on traditional lands connects us directly to ancestors, language, and cultural responsibilities, fostering deep healing, strength, and belonging. The phrase is intended as a positive affirmation for Indigenous peoples whilst on Country. Yes, walk around like you own the place because you do. The phrase as a criticism can be directed at the very first settler colonialists who disregarded the boundaries, laws, wishes and feelings of those who were here for tens of thousands of years and also to those people today who still want to climb over, pass through and stay on sacred sites such as the ‘womens’ mountain’ Dya (so-called Mount Ainslie – named after pastoralist James Ainslie)."

—Archie Moore

Archie Moore's project for the 6th Canberra Art Biennial was made possible due to the generous support of BVN.