Title: Heart shaped shellwork jewellery box (Red) Year: 2024 Materials: Shells, glue, velvet, cardboard & glitter Sizes vary: Approx 200mm wide x 200mm x 120mm deep
Continuing the tradition of shellwork which has been handed down to her from her mother Esme Timbery, Marilyn Russell's work represents her connection to the past and a process of healing. Through these fine art objects, Marilyn keeps Bidjigal women's shellwork tradition alive.
Tracing back to the early 1880s in the La Perouse area, Bidjigal women created similar items that were sold to tourists visiting the area. Prior to this time, Bidjigal people used seashells to make fish hooks, jewellery (for both men and women) as well as sacred objects. Marilyn is ensuring the longevity of this tradition by passing this practice and cultural knowledge to the next generation, just as her mother Esme did.
Originally established in the late 1800s, La Perouse remains one of Australia’s first Aboriginal missions, now deep in the heart of Australia’s biggest metropolis.
These distinctive shellwork jewellery boxes are hand formed from cardboard, covered in velvet and fabric, and then intricately embellished with shells and glitter. Each one is unique in their design, shell combinations and patterning.
