Gadigal Mural by Tim Phibs, P. J. Simon, Kevin May and Joanne Cassady
Location
Gadigal Reserve, 1 Grosvenor Crescent, Summer Hill
Djarrawunang (Magpie) - Ashfield Ward
Artist statement
For the Gadigal Reserve mural, I wanted to create a vibrant mural which remembers the waterway originally known as Long Cove Creek. The waterway was an important home for endemic plants and animals, and these will feature prominently in the mural.
As Lead Artist for the project, I worked with three other Aboriginal Artists - P.J.Simon, Kevin May and Jo Cassady, and all four styles came together very successfully. All four artists connected with the site during the time spent painting in Gadigal Reserve. It is a very interesting urban space with plants and small creatures living there despite the fact that the creek line has been covered by urban development. The concrete canal has completely changed the way the creek looks. Although certain animals and plants that were once present have disappeared, the man-made structures of the bridge and railway overpass have become a new home for these animals.
I planned from the outset to create the back drop for the mural with a bright, vibrant and stylised pattern work that symbolises the once pristine waterway and reminiscent of an aerial view of ripples and rain drops falling into the water.
Working in tandem with the other three artists, the collaboration created a vibrant visual dialogue celebrating the local areas proud Aboriginal heritage.
The artists who worked on the artwork will encourage local residents and visitors to stop and consider the artwork, and in doing so create a deeper connection and a positive reminder of the Aboriginal cultural heritage and wildlife that continues to survive in the Inner West.
Gadigal Mural Video Story
What's the story behind this beautiful mural that celebrates indigenous connections?