Symbolic Local Artwork To Be Unveiled

Monday 3 April 2006

The University of Newcastle will officially unveil an important illustration of Aboriginal artwork, welcoming visitors to the University Department of Rural Health (UDRH) building on the grounds of the Tamworth Base Hospital.

The mural titled 'Coming Together', which was made possible by the creative talents of local Aboriginal Artist Mr Warwick Keen, will reflect a cultural perspective unequalled in the area as the central showpiece of the entrance foyer.

The ceiling mural and 'pole' will be officially unveiled on April 7 by Mayor, Mr James Treloar and Gomeroi Elder, Mr Joe Trindall.

The 'pole', a contemporary designed artwork based on traditional tree-carvings (dendroglyphs) of the local traditional people of the area, complements the mural.

Artist, Mr Keen said, "I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity to paint 'Coming Together' on the ceiling within this building, it's not everyday that you receive a task like this one".

"I totally enjoyed the experience of being able to work (almost in solitude) and to be challenged, to produce a great work of Art."

The Director of the UDRH, Professor Peter Jones said, "It is a stunning piece of artwork that will have a positive impact on staff and visitors alike".

"The mural will help ensure that we consider and respect Indigenous people and their culture in the future work of the UDRH."

Indigenous Health Project Coordinator Amy Creighton said, "this is an important day for Aboriginal people. This beautiful mural will be a reminder to everyone of the continuing need to commit to the ongoing improvement of Aboriginal health in Australia."

The unveiling will occur at 10.30am on Friday 7 April 2006. The ceremony will feature local Aboriginal didgeridoo players, dancers and singers, followed by morning tea.

The Dowdell Estate made this mural possible through a bequest.

Mural unveiling and morning tea 10.30am Friday 7 April 2006 - University Department of Rural Health, Tamworth Base Hospital Campus.

Media are invited to attend. Interview and photo opportunities will be available by contacting Professor Peter Jones (02) 6767 8462.

'Coming Together' - Meaning and Description

'Coming Together' symbolises the gathering of all peoples from within this Northern-Western geographical area, to meet and discuss their health and well-being, so that we can all have a happier and healthier future together.

The central motif symbolises a waterhole, the cod-fish (GUDUU), the turtle (WARABA), and the platypus (BWBUMURR) are congregated there, whilst the land animals gather round to drink from this sacred well, to refresh themselves after a long and sometimes difficult journey.

The Emu (DHINAWAN) looks back over his shoulder to observe any intruders, while the Kangaroo (BANDAAR) also jumps about to distract any would be enemies. Meanwhile the Goanna (YURRANDAALI) and the Carpet Snake (YABAA) are content to edge closer to the waterhole, to drink.

The four circular motifs located in the corners of this design represent the outlying communities of this area, these smaller communities are linked to the main centre by the paths as indicated.

The blue night-sky and the stars symbolise that every one of us is but a small fragment of this beautiful, wondrous and never-ending universe. This universe was created for us all to share in, and when we all 'Come Together' we can help each other to overcome any adversity that besets us.

NB: Words in brackets are from the Gomeroi language.