It’s time to celebrate the official beginning of Treaty – a transformative milestone for reconciliation, self-determination and truth-telling in Victoria.
When you take a look at the signed Treaty you’ll find stunning artworks by First Peoples artists on the cover and throughout the document, including a beautiful new work titled Metro by Stacey Edwards.
Stacey is a proud Taungurung and Boon Wurrung artist. She joined The Torch’s program in 2017 and is now on staff as Gallery Administrator. Stacey explores and reclaims southeast Australian designs through her bright and colourful paintings, referencing concentric diamond designs from traditional shields and clubs.
Stacey shares the story behind her artwork Metro:
“The geometric design of the diamonds was traditionally used by the Kulin nations. This is contemporary spin on the diamonds. Blue represents the waterways whilst burnt orange represents the land. The mana gum leaves represent ceremony and healing. The smoking ceremony cleanses the past and welcomes the new. The mana gum blossom depicts self-determination, resilience and strength.”
Stacey’s artwork is featured alongside:
- North East by John Patten (Yorta Yorta (Dhulinyagan), Dhudhuroa, Bundjalung peoples)
- North West Dindi Thanggi: River Country by Jade Kennedy (Tatti-Tatti and Mutti-Mutti peoples)
- South West by Kiewa Austin-Rioli (Gunditjmara people)
- South East Ngetal Narmung – Ngetal Wurruk (My veins – My Country) by Njarala Paton (Monero Ngario, Gunai, Gunditjmara peoples)
We invite you to read the signed Treaty and join the celebration today!
Together, we walk forward with hope and determination.