Two new bold and visually dynamic murals have been unveiled in the Little Library! These artworks add a new dimension to this key learning space for our ELC and Prep students, as well as an important visual connection to the Wurundjeri Country where Carey stands today.
Bunjil’s Story and Community were created by Samantha Roberts, a Wurundjeri/Dja Dja Wurrung artist. According to Samantha, ‘the design of Bunjil’s Story involves the themes of storytelling, Wurundjeri culture and the development of colour. It incorporates both traditional and contemporary ideas all in one and shares the history of the land where the School is located.’
Samantha describes Community as focussing on the philosophy of children drawing with black and white, and of the layers involved in a child’s development:
‘These circles represent the saying that “it takes a village to raise a child”, because it is important to have a child grow up in an environment that exposes them to different perspectives of life and be supported by many different people along the way (community). It is about the ripples of change and the growth they go through (water) and the resilience they build (mountains) as they develop their own personalities and strengths (strength). It is also about the people there to support and guide them along their journey through storytelling (knowledge).’
We are thrilled to have these new vibrant artworks in the Little Library and greatly appreciate Samantha’s willingness to return to Carey next week and early in 2022 to further discuss her artwork and Wurundjeri history and culture with our students.
The murals would not have happened without the support of the Junior School Parents Association and our broader Junior School community, who shared our vision for this project funded through Community Giving this year.
We are very grateful for their support and hope that the new murals will be enjoyed by our ELC and Prep students and teachers for many years to come.
Stuart Galbraith
Head of Advancement, Community Engagement
Cover image: Artist Samantha Roberts with some excited ELC students in front of Bunjil's Story in the Little Library
