For Our Elders

This year, the theme of Naidoc week "For Our Elders" celebrates the important role and prominent place that Elders hold in our communities and families across every generation. Students at St Joseph’s are commemorating this special theme by creating portraits of their Elders and respected Indigenous community members to contribute to the Foundry NAIDOC Week exhibition.

The project began with a morning tea at St Mary's parish where Elders shared stories with the students of their lives and upbringings. They discussed the Country they were born/grew up, family lives, the importance of cultural identity and values that are lived out each day.  Stories were shared about our Elders' greatest accomplishments and challenges that they have overcome in their lives.  Also, values they hope to pass on to future generations.

What has evolved from this morning tea is a series of creative practice workshops led by local artist and St Joseph's teacher, Tilly Keenan and Koorie Education Support Officer, Aunty Donna Walsh.  The portraits have touched all that witness the group of dedicated students honouring their Elders and expressing this through art and cultural sharing.

It has been such a wonderful opportunity to honour and celebrate the Elders in our community who have played such an important role in shaping our young people of today and we can't wait to share what has evolved.  

The artworks are being exhibited at the Foundry Arts Space (13-17 Murray Esplanade, Echuca) as part of the NAIDOC Exhibition from this Friday 16 June.

I encourage our St Joseph's College community to visit this special exhibition celebrating and recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Artwork: Aunty Denise Morgan by Jaida Bourke.

Allison O'Brien

Arts Learning Leader