Colourful commitment to reconciliation
Schools
A visual arts project highlighting the importance of reconciliation has taken pride of place at Gleeson College.
The Reconciliation Journey Mural was unveiled in the college courtyard on the first day of Term 4 and will serve as an enduring, vibrant learning tool for students and staff.
Measuring an impressive 11m x 2m, the colourful mural makes a big statement and is the work of local artist and owner of Rusted Tin Contemporary Aboriginal Arts, Scott Rathman.
Mr Rathman met with Year 11 Visual Arts students in Term 3 and created the design using their concepts and understanding of reconciliation. The project was made possible through a Reconciliation Education Activities grant from Reconciliation SA.
Speaking about the significance of the mural, 2022 college presidents James Attick and Jasmin Fullgrabe said it reflected Gleeson’s commitment to the Kaurna people and their heritage, “as well as our ongoing respect for and responsibility to uphold their traditions and culture”.
“This artwork serves as a reminder for us, as a college, to always devote ourselves to learning the truth about our past, and collaborate together towards reconciliation by reminding us of our place in the long-standing history of this land,” they said.
Describing the different elements of the mural, Mr Rathman said the round ball at each end represented growth through reflection.
The hands holding the two circles, with further iconography inside them, depicted recognition. The circle on the left represented growth and the circle on the right contained images of finding your voice.
In the centre of the mural iconography shows people sitting together sharing, listening and learning from each other, while Aboriginal community members and Elders support and watch over this process.
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