iilk

iilk is a limited edition collab with Boonwurrung, Wemba Wemba and Trawlwoolway sis Jarra Karalinar Steel. It features artwork from Jarra’s 2021 Rising Melbourne Art Tram design iilk (short fin eel). 

This range is proudly Koori, and in true gammin style, inspo came from 80s and 90s pop culture & hip hop, and all the cool aunties we know.

About iilk artwork

“From a young age, my mother would tell me stories of the Iilk (short fin eel) and their long journey cycles, as they are important as a food source for our people. The Iilk’s journey cycles signaled the changing seasons and the cycles of life. I was captivated by the idea of these Iilk traveling underneath Elizabeth Street, which was once a creek flowing from the Birrarung (Yarra River). That like us, in this urban built-up jungle, we are still here on our country.
I like to imagine their long journey to the bay and ocean and back again returning to country.
By using the Iilk in my designs, I aim to reclaim their significant place in what we now call Melbourne. I envision these eels traveling along our tram lines, symbolizing their and our enduring journey.”

Jarra Karalinar Steel

📺 See Boon Wurrung Dreaming story of the eel- told by Aunty Faye Stewart-Muir, as written by Aunty Carolyn Briggs (Jarra's mum)