Sunrise Journeys: All-new immersive Indigenous experience premieres at Uluru
The sensory experience transforms the desert landscape into a giant canvas the size of three football fields
Sunrise Journeys, the all-new immersive Indigenous laser, light and sound show that celebrates connection to Country has premiered in the spiritual heart of Australia.
The early morning sensory experience transforms the desert landscape into a giant canvas the size of three football fields (200m by 300m), as a modern Indigenous artwork is interpreted into a kaleidoscope of colour and sound using state-of-the-art animation technology that showcases the artistic expertise of Aṉangu — the Traditional Owners of Uluru.
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The two-hour story-telling experience sets the scene for nature’s most spectacular show — the dawn of a new day as Uluṟu glows fire-ember red.
Art, Nature and Culture – A Modern Homage:
A deep understanding and appreciation of the natural environment is intrinsic to Aṉangu culture.
Central to Sunrise Journeys is a bespoke painting created by three renowned female Aṉangu artists — Selina Kulitja (Maruku Arts), Denise Brady (Kaltukatjara Art), and Valerie Brumby (Walkatjara Art).
Titled Ngura Nganampa Wiru Mulapa, which translates from Pitjantjatjara to English as “our Country is truly beautiful”, the painting depicts a modern telling of the artists’ shared connection to these lands. During Sunrise Journeys, this painting is interpreted on the desert landscape using laser, light and video projections, while narration from the artists themselves enhances guests’ understanding of the rhythms of the natural world.
Denise Brady, Kaltukatjara Art, says of the Sunrise Journeys collaboration: “Our hearts burn with passion to share our Country and knowledge with the world. We have created Sunrise Journeys to invite people into our culture and share our way of life.”
- Selina Kulitja, Denise Brady and Valerie Brumby. Image:Supplied
The accompanying musical score is composed by local Aṉangu musician, Jeremy Whiskey, from Indulkana community in the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara-Yankunytjatjara Lands.
Titled Ngura Nganampa Wiru Mulapa, which translates from Pitjantjatjara to English as “our Country is truly beautiful”, the painting depicts a modern telling of the artists’ shared connection to these lands. During Sunrise Journeys, this painting is interpreted on the desert landscape using laser, light and video projections, while narration from the artists themselves enhances guests’ understanding of the rhythms of the natural world.
Cutting-Edge Tech in the Outback
The group’s creative efforts have been brought to life by renowned Australian visual experience team Mandylights. World-leaders in light artistry, the organisation has illuminated iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge as well as creating the large-scale “Dark Spectrum” installation for Sydney’s Vivid 2024. Other famous projects include the Backstreet Boys’ Las Vegas residency, Dubai New Year’s Eve, and the Chayong International Light Festival in Beijing.
As one of the world’s most remote locations, the landscape of Uluṟu brings both unique challenges and opportunities for technological artistry. At a sustainably constructed open-air amphitheatre, six 30w lasers, seven 12kw projectors and 30 bright field lights work in tandem to tell a spectacular visual story. Meanwhile a state-of-the-art audio-surround system with spatialised audio tracks gives audiences the sensation of being completely immersed or surrounded, as they would in a movie theatre.
To create the stunning visuals, Mandylights designers traced a high-resolution photograph of the painting by hand and divided it into over 170 digital “pieces”. These were animated with video and laser software to match the music’s pace and artists’ narration.
Respecting Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property
The modern yet culturally rich encounter expands on Ayers Rock Resort’s commitment to community engagement, leadership and respectful tourism. The company set an industry benchmark for Indigenous collaboration and respecting Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP) with the launch of Wintjiri Wiru in May 2023, and Sunrise Journeys continues this commitment.
Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia (operators of Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru): “Sunrise Journeys elevates our commitment to authentic, meaningful and responsible cultural tourism. It’s a real honour and privilege to be able to work with leading artists of the region and share their unique connection to the natural environment.”
“For thousands of years, art has played such an important part in telling Aṉangu stories and keeping culture strong. Artwork painted in this region now hangs in galleries all over the world, so we’re thrilled to be able to showcase this piece in such a unique way – here, in its desert home. “
“We’re grateful to Denise, Selina, Valerie and Jeremy for sharing their art with the world, and for the opportunity to deepen visitors’ appreciation for Aṉangu culture and the natural beauty of Uluru.”
Sarah is a freelance journalist with experience across print, digital and audio. After working for Multimedia Publishing as a contributing writer, she has recently joined the team in a part-time capacity for School News AU and AccomNews.