National Reconciliation Week celebrations kicked off in Wyong with the official opening of the Maliga Indigenous Art Showcase at The Art House at 10:00am on Friday, May 26. Maliga, which means Shine, in Darkinjung, is a school-based art showcase, promoting local Indigenous students’ multimedia art and craft that reflects their identity and cultural connection to the Central Coast.
The project commenced in 2014 and has created a platform for young Indigenous people to share their own stories of cultural identity. It presents a multidisciplinary narrative of identity and connection to place in the visual, literary and performance arts. Maliga has engaged with local schools, youth services, cultural leaders and elders, and is open to all members of the community to acknowledge and celebrate their stories. St Brigid’s Catholic College student, Claudia McCartney, received the Mayoral Award from, Councillor Chris Holstein, on behalf of, Central Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, for her work, Meeting at the Blood Tree.
Kindergarten and Year 1 students from Toukley Public School received Highly Commended Award Primary School for their works, Connection and Our ABC’s and Numbers. Gorokan Public School students, Jai Witton, Isacc Mount and Shaylee Baxter, received an Elders’ Choice Award for their work, Our Land. Kulnura Public School student, Blayde Johnson, also received an Elders’ Choice for his work, Family are Helpful. Wadalba Community School received a Highly Commended Award Secondary School and an Elders’ Choice Award for their work, Our Stories.
Northlakes High School student, Kyle Waters, also received a Highly Commended Secondary School and an Elders’ Choice Award for his work, Spirit Turtle. Special guests at the opening included Mr Gavi Duncan, whose career as an Indigenous artist spans 30 years, Ms Mayrah Sonter, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and journalist, and, Ms Jenni McEwen, elder, cultural leader and artist.
Source: Media statement, May 29 Central Coast Council Media