Billagurdah by Wayne Stevens

Event description

Wayne is a skilled birlagurda (craftsman) whose practice is deeply grounded in culture, knowledge, and lived experience.

Raised among strong cultural leaders and makers—including his father—he learned by observing, listening, and participating from a young age across the Guruma, Yindjibarndi and Yinhawangka nations. His journey as a carver began following his initiation through cultural Law, marking a significant point in both his life and artistic practice.

Since then, his work has become a continuation of inherited knowledge, guided by responsibility, respect, and cultural protocol. Wayne’s artefacts are more than crafted objects—they are expressions of connection to ngurra (Country), carrying stories, memory, and identity.

Through carving, he maintains a living relationship with his old people, honouring both past and present while fulfilling his responsibilities to culture. Committed to cultural continuity, Wayne is passionate about ensuring these practices are sustained and passed on to future generations.