Konara on Parai – Community on Country

Konara on parai shares the story of connection to community and country in the Hunter.  It highlights past, present and future generations, and the move across the generations from traditional to original custodians, onto  today as shared custodians together on country. 

Traditional engraved symbolism within the design brings an acknowledgments to Traditional custodians, with a large central gathering circle highlighting Awabakal, the country upon which this artwork was created.

A further three interconnected gathering circles depict surrounding tribal groups of the Wonnarua, Worimi, Darkinjung.  The fifth gathering circle, alongside a backdrop of expanding gathering circles out across country, acknowledge all tribal nations represented on country, who make the Hunter their home.  People symbols sit upon each of the gathering circles and this imagery is inclusive of all community on country and the respectful relationships and family connections built over time. 

At the top of the canvas the Eagle reflects the Wedgetail of the Wonnarua and Biraban of the Awabakal and this symbolism, alongside traditional Elders, pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.   A backdrop of country depicts our hills, plains, valleys and mountains of the Hunter, while the blue water imagery depicts the East Coast, the Myan (Hunter River), Awaba (Lake Macquarie) and Hexham wetlands.

Konara on Parai acknowledges our past and looks forward to the future together as we share vision for caring for country and each other, while celebrating and embracing our countries  oldest living culture and it’s people.

Size: 2000(w) x 1000(h) mm

Year: April 2024

Medium: Mixed medium on premium stretched canvas with hanging hooks and wire.