From richly detailed wall hangings to colourful raffia earrings, Ngumpie Weaving founder Tegan Murdock’s work certainly lives up to the name.
“Ngumpie in Barkindji language means ‘beautiful’ – this is what my Nanna Shirl used to call me.”
Pronounced ‘numb-pie,’ Murdock’s business is about more than creating beautiful works of art. For the proud Barapa Barapa, Barkindji woman, weaving represents something deeper. “Ngumpie Weaving began as a way to reconnect with my roots and preserve the art that my ancestors practiced,” Murdock tells marie claire.
“One thing I love about our culture is that we are the oldest continuing living culture in the world and that is because we never stopped learning our traditions.”
How Tegan Is Continuing A Powerful Cultural Lineage
Murdock’s mother taught her the basics of weaving, continuing a powerful cultural lineage that Ngumpie Weaving now extends to the next generation.
“When I became a mother, I realised I was not just preserving traditions for myself and my community, but for my two beautiful daughters and hopefully their children one day. It motivated me to expand my practice and teachings, ensuring that the knowledge that I have learnt is also passed down and not forgotten.”
Through workshops, education and cultural exchange, Murdock’s work with Ngumpie Weaving is engaging young First Nations people in a way that goes beyond the intricate designs they create.
“Our workshops not only teach weaving, but also its cultural significance. We also use social media to reach a broader audience and show the modern relevance of traditional crafts,” Murdock explains.
Keep The Fire Burning
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme was ‘Keep the Fire Burning’ and it’s a perfect summary of what Ngumpie Weaving is all about. “Each piece I create helps keep our cultural fire burning, ensuring that the stories, skills, and spirit of our ancestors remain alive and vibrant,”
Murdock says. That said, there’s always room to experiment. While she uses traditional materials like native grasses, seeds, echidna quills and emu feathers, and focuses on time-honoured techniques such as coil weaving, netting and making rope yarn, Murdock is also interested in developing her craft.
“I believe in honouring the past while embracing the future. This balance comes through in my work by maintaining the core of traditional methods while experimenting with modern designs and materials. It’s about respecting the roots while allowing the tree to grow in new directions.”
The Heart Of Storytelling
One thing that doesn’t change about Murdock’s work? Storytelling is always at the heart. “Each piece tells a story, whether it’s about the seasons, our spiritual beliefs, or personal journeys. These stories are encoded in the colours, patterns, and even the materials I choose.”
Murdock is about to install a sculptural piece on the Gateway Trail of Wodonga, titled Three Dillybags. It’s an homage to her family, designed shortly after her parents’ home was caught in a house fire. “They were lucky to get out with just the clothes on their backs, and that piece is truly for them.”
Like in all Indigenous arts, Murdock says that commodification is one of her main challenges. To combat this, Ngumpie Weaving emphasises authentic representation and direct involvement in all their projects, along with education and awareness to overcome stereotypes.
“Listening to our voices and stories, directly from us, and supporting First Nation businesses and artists will keep the fire burning,” Murdock says. “Anyone can engage respectfully, by learning about and acknowledging the history and culture of First Nation peoples.”
Nanna Shirl would be proud.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
