Kindling

This artwork is called Kindling and represents the unyielding spirit and voices of Indigenous communities still fighting and honouring the undying flame of Indigenous cultures. Just like the essential elements needed to keep a fire burning we need these voices to continue to ignite the fire and kindle the sparks of pride and unity that celebrates our Indigenous identity that empowers everyone else to keep going. As we honour the flame that unites us through this years NAIDOC theme this piece tells a story of our communities who continue to fight and stand in solidarity to amplify our voices and enrich our nation with Indigenous culture. These voices are like the small pieces of wood used to start the fire and once its burning will ignite the larger pieces of wood inviting the rest of Australia to join the fight, to listen and engage in meaningful conversations, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous people are fully valued and respected. In this piece you will see all of the different elements used for kindling such as small sticks, dry grass, leaves, shaved paper bark, dry pine needles, tinder fungus and dry cattail leaves. In this artwork there are groups of people who represent the Indigenous communities and the chain effect of sharing and passing down knowledge and stories which triggers further conversation and positive change for future generations. I have also included rain as sometimes the flame falters in harsh environments but with the challenge of rain comes regrowth and an opportunity to be stronger and more united than ever before.