Whispers, 2023, Megan Cope, Sydney Opera House, NSW. 85,000 repurposed oyster shell waste, cypress pine, stainless steel cables, aluminum, dimensions variable. Image courtesy of the artist and Milani Gallery, Brisbane, Photo: Daniel Boud.

In archaeological terms, a midden is a mound or deposit containing shells, animal bones and other refuse that indicates human settlement. In other words, it contains the site of Indigenous family feasts and gatherings built up across thousands of years.

The removal of these Aboriginal architectural forms, and the continued mining operations and excavation of sacred sites, renders a landscape void of Indigenous culture and markers once used by our ancestors to navigate through Country. 

This work provides a space to learn local histories and see Country through an Indigenous lens. It has also provided an opportunity for the community of Sydney to participate in the project through the evolution of the sculptures themselves.

Whispers

as part of the 50th birthday celebration for the Sydney Opera House

For the 50-year anniversary of the Sydney Opera House, Megan Cope created a series of propositional sculptures that connect to deep layers of time and the cultural history of this site to evoke discussion for potential futures for local Saltwater ways around Gadigal Country. These immersive sculptures rest in three prominent locations that connect this magnificent building with an expanded narrative that creates space to see Land, Sky and Sea Country through a First Nations lens.

All the works are informed by and trace six years of research into the history of and cultural relationships to Kinyingarra, from the vast reef constructions made by our Indigenous ancestors to the early lime-burning industries to the potential extinction of oyster reefs and impact of climate change. In the process they ask questions about how art and culture can heal Saltwater Country as well as our current relationship with the environment.

EXHIBITION HISTORY

Whispers, 2023, Sydney Opera House, Sydney, NSW

PRESS

Whispers/Megan Cope, 2023 Documentary

Sydney Opera House: 85,000 oyster shells tell of site’s true story in major public artwork

The 85,000 oyster shells that tell the Opera House’s real history

All Images above: Whispers, 2023, Megan Cope. 85,000 repurposed oyster shell waste, cypress pine, stainless steel cables, aluminum, dimensions variable. Image courtesy of the artist and Milani Gallery, Brisbane, Photo: Daniel Boud.