our lullabies: an ode to mothers tongue

recorded lullabies on loop track, second hand scarves, gold foil on fabric

Our Lullabies: An Ode to Mother’s Tongue (2024) was an immersive, community-driven art installation that sought to celebrate the rich cultural fabric of the Illawarra region. Curated by lead artist Jes Alexander, in partnership with sound engineer Jordan Ireland, the project connected with local communities to preserve and share lullabies passed down through generations. Over several months, nine unique lullabies were recorded in their mother tongue language — including lullabies from Kenya, India, Vietnam, the Cook Islands, Palestine, Ukraine, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Serbia.

Recorded binaurally in intimate locations throughout the region, the lullabies embody the deep emotional resonance of each culture’s oral histories. These recordings were presented alongside a tapestry of second-hand scarves, meticulously sewn together to create a sensory haven for listeners. The final work was presented at Wollongong Council’s Culture Mix Festival at Wollongong Art Gallery in 2024, transforming the BlueScope gallery into a space of warmth, connection, and cultural reverence. The project stands as a testament to the power of song, language, and the shared experiences that shape our collective identity.

This project was funded by Creative Australia, and would not have been possible without support from Wollongong City Council and those who so generously shared their sacred songs with us.