Billie Dean performed for the Braidwood Community Arts Centre.
Braidwood artist Billie Dean gave a fascinating talk on the ancient ways of various indigenous teachings at a Blessing Ceremony she performed for the Braidwood Community Arts Centre at the launch of her photographic exhibition Wisdom from the Paddock on Friday night.
The Blessing included the importance of honouring the Earth in the old ways by giving back. And how to do that.
Dean spoke about the Quechuan concept of staying in "ayni", which is their practise of reciprocity or keeping in balance, as well as the urgent need today for social change, including stewardship of the earth for future generations. The ceremony also included a "smudging" or "clearing" of the building, a process that is common to many different traditions, according to Dean.
The exhibition Wisdom from the Paddock, and the introductory episode to Wild Pure Heart Productions’ forthcoming web series of the same name, was to raise awareness and funds for their forthcoming feature film The Farmer, a mainstream romantic comedy drama, and their vision for a boutique film studio in Braidwood, and their charity, The Deep Peace Trust.
"It was great that people laughed and wanted to see the video again," said producer Andrew Einspruch. "It shows us we're on the right track."
Both Dean and Einspruch were grateful that people came out on such a cold, wet night and weekend to enjoy film, photography, Cow Poetry, talks and cupcakes.