As an artist and proud Aboriginal woman living and creating on Wurundjeri Country, I’ve always sought to use my work as a medium for connection, storytelling, and respect for Country. When Sportsgirl Melbourne Central invited me to create an Acknowledgement of Country artwork for their store in Naarm (Melbourne), I was deeply honoured and inspired.
This piece was more than just an artistic commission—it was an opportunity to celebrate the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of this land, and to create something that invites reflection and respect from everyone who enters the space.
The Story Behind the Artwork
Acknowledgement of Country is a vital act of recognition and respect for the First Peoples of this land. For this artwork, I drew on the rich cultural heritage of the Wurundjeri people, using visual storytelling to convey their deep connection to the land, waterways of Naarm.
Art in the Everyday
Having this artwork displayed in a space as dynamic and bustling as Sportsgirl Melbourne Central is powerful. It’s a reminder to stop and pause to acknowledge the land we walk on.
Sportsgirl’s commitment to amplifying Aboriginal voices through this collaboration is a testament to the positive steps businesses can take in reconciliation. I’m incredibly proud to have contributed to a project that not only celebrates culture but also fosters awareness and respect among the thousands of people who pass through this space each day.
Why Acknowledgement Matters
Acknowledgement of Country isn’t just a gesture—it’s an ancient tradition and an act of respect and a step toward reconciliation. It’s about recognising that this land has been cared for by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years. It’s a chance to honour that history and the ongoing connection of Indigenous people to the land.
Through this artwork, I hope to inspire everyone who sees it to reflect on their relationship with the Country they’re on and to take a moment to honour the Traditional Custodians of that land.
Gratitude
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sportsgirl for their trust and commitment to embedding cultural recognition into their spaces. To the Wurundjeri people, I acknowledge your enduring connection to Country and pay my respects to your Elders past and present.
This collaboration reflects the essence of my art: sharing stories, celebrating culture, and fostering connections. It’s a privilege to contribute to this shared journey of respect and reconciliation through creativity.
