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For Desi, the journey has been transformative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis competition gave me a chance to listen, learn, and honour Indigenous perspectives through art. It\u2019s more than a platform for creative expression\u2014it\u2019s a space where inclusion and understanding grow. It was a privilege to work alongside Fiona, and together create something that reflects our connection to each other and to Country.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fiona echoed these sentiments, sharing how their collaboration came from a place of friendship and a shared connection to the natural world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOur bond began with the Weelyark. Whenever we see them fly above, it\u2019s like nature is sending us a message. To me, this artwork was an opportunity to create something meaningful together\u2014celebrating culture, connection, and the journey of reconciliation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This year\u2019s competition signals a shift. Rather than focusing solely on individual artistic recognition, it celebrates collaboration and relationality, spotlighting how partnerships can bring reconciliation to life in tangible and visual ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Associate Professor Mandy Downing, Dean of Indigenous Futures, emphasised the broader impact:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAs a Faculty of Humanities, we\u2019re leading Curtin in shaping culturally welcoming and inclusive spaces. What I love most about this year\u2019s piece is the relational aspect\u2014it captures the essence of ReconciliAction: meaningful partnerships grounded in mutual respect and highlights what is possible when we unite.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Professor Richard Blythe, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty, added:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis project reshapes how we experience our campus. It invites us to better understand the stories of our Indigenous colleagues\u2014and encourages others to see Curtin as a place they belong.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the artwork becomes a new fixture of the campus landscape, its presence will continue to spark curiosity and conversation. More than just a mural, it\u2019s a statement of purpose\u2014aligning with Curtin\u2019s commitment to Indigenising the built environment and creating inclusive spaces where all students feel welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Desi reflects on the competition\u2019s lasting value:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a platform that doesn\u2019t just showcase emerging artists\u2014it celebrates Indigenous culture, invites non-Indigenous students into the conversation, and fosters connection across our community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Indigenous Futures Artwork Competition remains a cornerstone initiative of the Indigenous Futures capability platform\u2014making reconciliation visible, creative, and deeply felt. Through art, we\u2019re reminded that the most powerful stories are often those shared between people, across cultures, and built on mutual respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The competition and winning piece also garnered wider attention, recently being featured in both the print and digital editions of The Examiner<\/a><\/em> newspaper, further highlighting the growing impact of this initiative across the broader community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Learn more: ReconciliAction in Art: Desi and Fiona\u2019s Story of Collaboration<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n