Debil Debil, Baldwin Spencer — Jordan James Kaye

Debil Debil, Baldwin Spencer

Debil Debil Baldwin Spencer is inspired by Jason Tamiru, a proud Yorta Yorta man and the Melbourne School of Design’s Indigenous Cultural Advisor, and his profound experience upon first entering the Walter Baldwin Spencer Lecture Theatre, located on the University of Melbourne’s grounds.

Drawing on Spencer’s controversial legacy as an evolutionary biologist whose work influenced the Stolen Generation policy, the film seeks to decolonize the space and reimagine its significance. 

Walter Baldwin Spencer’s legacy is etched into the institution through the building and his ideology lingers in unsettling ways beyond the foundational bricks and mortar of the building itself.

The film is made through a sensitive observational and experimental documentary style lens which aims to translate the weight of his experience into an evocative and deeply immersive form.

completion: 2025
duration: 8’ 09”
format: 16mm print available
film stock: 16mm colour neg + bw
camera: Eclair NPR + Bolex H16
context: funded by University of Melbourne
acknowledgements: Jason Tamiru (performance), Jillian Walliss (research)

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