My artwork was inspired by Aboriginal artist Danielle Mate Sullivan. Like me, she is from South-Western Sydney and has a love for animals. Aboriginal people hold a connection to the land through waterways and living things. I chose the whale because animals and plants surround us and continually grow. We looked at Reconciliation and how Australia will work together to grow. Using the Uluru Statement of The Heart, I arranged the body of the whale. I included the words ‘Better,’ ‘Hope’ and ‘Grateful’ because when I grow older, I HOPE Australia will be better by including all First Nations people equally. I am hopeful and grateful this is happening, and First Nations people are being heard.
Reconciliation means…
Hearing First Nations people and respecting their strong connection to Country.
Artist: Abby Walsh