Deadly Poets Society: Curated by Kirli Saunders

Deadly Poets Society brings together award-winning First Nations writers and performers, Gunai artist Kirli Saunders, Yuwaalaraay writer and singer-songwriter Nardi Simpson and Bundjalung and Gumbaynggir storyteller Dakota Feirer. Turning the literary canon on its head, they explore the people, places and ideas that have shaped them. And ask what becomes possible when Blak poetry refuses to stay politely on the page. Part reading, part conversation, this session is a celebration of Blak storytelling and its role as a living archive and catalyst for change.

Kirli Saunders (OAM) is a proud Gunai Woman who rarely stays in her lane. She's an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, an author of nine books, singer-songwriter and consultant. Kirli creates to connect, to make change. She was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for her contribution to the arts.

Kirli’s nine books have been recognised by major literary prizes including the Prime Minister’s, Queensland, Victorian, and Western Australian Premiers’ Literary Awards, the CBCA, and the ABIA. Her titles include Beyond the Shore, Eclipse, Afloat, The Land Recalls You, Returning, Our Dreaming, Bindi, Kindred, and The Incredible Freedom Machines.

As a singer-songwriter, she forms one half of Cooee alongside Mark Chester Harding, and they recently released their debut album Messengers.

Nardi Simpson is a Yuwaalaraay storyteller from the New South Wales freshwater floodplains. She is a musician, composer and author passionate about sharing story, connecting people, and resonating with country.

Dakota Feirer is a Goori storyteller based on Yuin, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country. Dakota's debut collection of poems, Arsenic Flower, engages with Country, culture, resurgence and manhood. Dakota believes in healing Country and our communities through art and storytelling.

This Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend event is presented by Waverley Council with support from Gertrude & Alice Bookstore.