RAP Artwork for Shoalhaven City Council

Woven" is a communal community painting that serves as a powerful symbol of Aboriginal identity and connection to Yuin Country. Through motifs and shapes intricately woven within a grid-like structure, this artwork communicates a profound visual language that speaks to the continuous process of revitalising and preserving our shared histories, such visual language draws attention to the ongoing "mending" and "woven" histories.

Local Aboriginal visual artist Jaz Corr will bring her artistic vision to life as part of Shoalhaven City Council’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Council is embarking on a foundational level, ‘reflect’ RAP that helps prepare the business to engage in reconciliation meaningfully.

Artwork will play a key role in providing opportunities for the community to get involved and provide visual symbolism unique to the Shoalhaven.

Mayor Amanda Findley says this was a fantastic project that would drive the artistic process through community workshops and communal painting.

“We want to celebrate and recognise the beginning of Council’s Reconciliation journey through original artwork and delight in the visual theme of the RAP,” Cr Findley said.

“A talented teacher and artist, we’re very excited to have Ms Corr produce this artwork hand-in-hand with the community,” she said.

Jaz Corr is a proud Dharawal woman and has extensive experience delivering Aboriginal art and culture workshops. Her submission titled Woven, will comprise recycled, heavy-duty cardboard and a range of paints and speaks to ongoing mending and woven histories.

“Woven is a communal painting that serves as a powerful symbol of Aboriginal identity and connection to Yuin Country,” Ms Corr said.

“Through motifs and shapes intricately woven within a grid-like structure, this artwork will communicate a profound visual language that speaks to the continuous process of revitalising and preserving our shared histories,” she said.

“The rich earth pigments used in Woven represent interconnectedness of land, sea and sky, reflecting the deep connection to the natural environment that is central to Aboriginal culture.”

As part of the collaborative process, Ms Corr will be hosting sessions across the Shoalhaven for the community to get involved.

Community Consultation Art Workshops included:

• Wreck Bay Community members at Vincentia High School

• Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Nowra

• NGULLA NAIDOC FESTIVAL with Ulladulla Land Council

• Shoalhaven City Council

• Shoalhaven High School

• Bomaderry Public School

Council’s reconciliation journey is one step closer with its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).