Shaped by the Sea Australian National Maritime Museum

Shaped by the Sea tells the story of Australia’s maritime history and its relationship with seas, rivers and waterways from the deep past.

As an island nation Australia has a unique relationship with the sea – and now it’s being told through the lens of modern science and maritime archaeology, as well as through Indigenous knowledge.

Hundreds of objects from the... Show more

Shaped by the Sea tells the story of Australia’s maritime history and its relationship with seas, rivers and waterways from the deep past.

As an island nation Australia has a unique relationship with the sea – and now it’s being told through the lens of modern science and maritime archaeology, as well as through Indigenous knowledge.

Hundreds of objects from the museum’s collection will be on display for the first time, including several significant and iconic pieces such as Alick Tipoti’s bronze sculpture Kisay Dhangal.

The centrepiece of the exhibition is a commissioned work by the Mulka Art Project. This stunning contemporary video installation called Dhaŋaŋ Dhukarr (Many Pathways) brings together all the elements of the exhibition (land, water, and sky) into an immersive, cyclic reflection of Australia.