Exploring one’s connection to Country and culture at Melbourne

Mikaylah’s journey to Melbourne

Mikaylah completed a Diploma and Certificate IV in Photo Imaging, before deciding to apply for the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA).

“I wanted to broaden my horizons; I was a bit too comfortable. I wanted to try something new and get a new perspective on my work.”

She was successful in receiving an interview where she presented a folio, focusing on Aboriginal jewellery. Mikaylah humbly describes her folio as “just a starting point”.

“I had my visual diary and that’s all. I had a few scraps, a few test shots, but nothing set in stone.”

After asking her about her work, her process and how she thought her art could make an impact, the panel decided it was a starting point too. The starting point of Mikaylah's time at the VCA.

Studying at the VCA

Before her classes began, Mikaylah attended a camp organised by Murrup Barak, the Melbourne Institute for Indigenous Development. She describes it as her most memorable University of Melbourne experience. It was there that she made many of her friends, including fellow artists who she instantly looked forward to collaborating with.

Murrup Barak, located on the Parkville campus, has also been a source of ongoing support for Mikaylah.

“Murrup Barak send me emails about scholarships, works they’re doing and study nights. They have been a really big help. They’ve helped me get some scholarships and stay motivated.”

Once she started studying at the Southbank campus, Mikaylah enjoyed the “hands on” aspect of her course, including having her own studio space, and the opportunities to collaborate with peers and globally renowned artists.

Also located on the Southbank campus is the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development, which works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to identify, recruit and support potential and practising Indigenous artists to study and refine their academic and artistic skills.

“Having my people there is so incredible. Having that connection is so important, [as is] having someone there to look up to.”

Deepening ties to culture

Growing up, Mikaylah was surrounded by both Chinese and Samoan food, dance and music. More recently, she discovered her culture was richer than she previously thought. Not only was she Chinese and Samoan – but also Aboriginal. Mikaylah describes this discovery as a surreal experience.

“It did feel like something was missing and finding that out was so incredible. You feel like you have to learn more about your Country, about your people, about who you are.”

Mikaylah’s ancestors are from Palawa. The Palawa people are the traditional owners of the land now known as Tasmania. Ever since making this self-discovery, she's been immersing herself in knowledge and research, and finding ways to incorporate her culture into her own work.

The Photography specialisation at Melbourne has been a great way for Mikaylah to explore and share this rich sense of culture. Regular student exhibitions and the annual end-of-year exhibitions form an integral part of the curriculum and offer students like Mikaylah the opportunity to engage the wider public in their work.

“I want people to not only see my photos but feel them.” Mikaylah says her connection to Country is deeply spiritual. “You feel so happy. When you’re doing dance, song, anything, it feels like your ancestors are there with you, supporting you, loving you and wanting you to do the best you can do.”