Art to add to Aboriginal heritage

THE North Gardens Indigenous Sculpture Park near Lake Wendouree will soon see a new addition with Wadawurrung creative Kait James to develop its next piece of public art.

With conceptual work already underway, the end project will impart the Indigenous history and culture of the region for passersby.

James said her involvement is a chance to add to the site’s purpose of telling First Nations stories through art.

“It offers an opportunity to share our rich culture with the broader community,” she said.

“I’m thrilled to not only contribute to this space but also follow in the footsteps of my cousin Deanne Gilson.”

Stories around the geography and geology of Lake Wendouree, Ballarat, and the broader region may feature in the piece.

The North Gardens Indigenous Sculpture Park was launched in 2019 through the City of Ballarat with the unveiling of Wadawurrung artist Dr Deanne Gilson’s Murrup Laarr.

Translating to “ancestral stones” in Wadawurrung, the piece features several basalt stones fixed with ceramic plates telling stories of dreaming, memory, and ceremony, while a stone hut in the centre is embellished with handprints belonging to various generations.

Cr Belinda Coates said having First Nations-created public art that showcases their culture, history, and heritage, is important for connection.

“It is important to have public art that symbolises continuing traditions, of healing, ecologies and a venue for gatherings to celebrate the spirit of the Lake Wendouree landscape,” she said.

James’ work typically revolves around notions of identity, self-perception, and a lack of knowledge around First Nations culture, while exploring her own background as a woman of Anglo and Indigenous heritage.