Reconciliation Art Work

Council's Reconciliation painting was commissioned in 2002. The purpose of the work was to accompany Council's 'Statement of Commitment to Indigenous Australians' and to be associated with all Council Reconciliation publications and events.

Gail Harradine from the Wotjobaluk Nation Grouping was commissioned to undertake the work, with the support of Wurundjeri Elder, Joy Murphy.

The story of the artwork is described below by Gail Harradine.

"This artwork relates to my bloodlines and Wotojobaluk identity. The work also pays respect to the land of the Wurundjeri, where I have lived for a number of years.

"Images such as the mussel shell represent areas of importance including the river system. The linear patterns are influenced by south-eastern Australia shield designs and our unique possum skin cloak incisions. It is a symbolic representation of the country in the Stonnington area and the diverse communities that reside there. The Yarra River and the green parks and gardens are important areas depicted and include Indigenous and non Indigenous people living in harmony.