The Power of Community - Indigenous Art Project

‘Depicting the strength of women and the power of community the painting is a testament to our unwavering dedication to preserving the traditions of our ancestors and promoting environmental stewardship.’ Mrs Shiels, College Librarian.

The College is delighted to announce the acquisition of a significant new painting for the Library’s art collection. Thanks to the generous donation from former student Yves Rahme and her mother Dany Hatem the College commissioned renowned artist, Leanne Watson, to create this artwork ‘Marri Djirang Nura - Big Tree Country’. Over several collaboration sessions over many months Ms Watson worked with a small group of Year 8 students. She used their ideas and insights to create this piece which showcases the flora, fauna and culture of the Dharug people and the beautiful Blue Gum Forest which is an integral part of landscape and life of the College.

The pink background signifies the colour of the Blue Gum forest’s bark, the waratahs represent healing, and the leaves, cockatoos, and lizard depict the forest’s diverse flora and fauna.The central circles symbolize the Bennies community, and the half circles represent staff and students. Finally, the tools on either side of the central circles represent the strength of women. The work is a celebration of the power of partnerships. It was commissioned thanks to the generous donation from an alumnus and was created by Ms Watson in collaboration with a small group of students and staff. Mr Hanratty celebrated the relationships that made the commission possible saying, ‘the work represents the communal nature of Benedictine education as well as its strong connection to stewardship of the land.’

This painting connects many of the threads which weave through the fabric of life at the College; community, friendship, the strength of women, the indigenous significance of the Blue Gum Forest, the Benedictine Values of Hospitality, Pax and Stewardship, and the MYBennies Indigenous Education Program which includes Ms Watson’s book, Cooee Mittigar.

Since it’s unveiling at a morning tea in March the painting has resonated deeply with the College community. It signifies the commitment of the College to work towards a more sustainable future, and to authentically embed indigenous perspectives in learning in line with the College’s Reconciliation Action Program. Mrs Shiels hopes that it will inspire everyone who sees it to delve deeper into the significance and culture of the Dharug people.

‘Marri Djirang Nura - Big Tree Country’ is on permanent display in the College Library.