New Film explores Indigenous artist's water stewardship

The Institute for Water Futures (IWF) has supported Hozaus Claire to produce the short film, Believing to See: The Martuwarra Fitzroy River. Hozuas is a Bunuba/Gooniyandi man, young community leader and artist from Fitzroy Crossing. 

As the 2023 IWF Cultural Resident, he worked with film-maker Sammy Hawker to co-direct the film as part of the program. 

In the film, Hozaus presents a compelling oral history, drawing on his profound connection with Martuwarra (the Fitzroy River).

Recognised by UNESCO as a living water museum, Martuwarra nurtures Country and the communities upon it. Through Hozaus' narration, viewers witness how Martuwarra shapes the identity and way of life of his community, as well as serves as inspiration for his art practice.

With the community still rebuilding in the aftermath of devastating flooding, the film warns of looming threats posed by climate change and unsustainable development.

Alert to its changes within his lifetime, Hozaus becomes a vocal advocate for the protection of Martuwarra. The film captures his efforts to preserve his cultural heritage and rally his community and beyond to safeguard the River for future generations.

 The IWF Cultural Residency program supports First Nations artists to explore their perspectives on waterways through a creative project. 

Contacts

Erin Neil-Aouali
Contact email:Erin.neil@anu.edu.au

Acknowledgement of Country

The Australian National University acknowledges, celebrates and pays our respects to the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people of the Canberra region and to all First Nations Australians on whose traditional lands we meet and work, and whose cultures are among the oldest continuing cultures in human history.