Cessnock has been peppered with authentic Aboriginal artworks and artefacts to celebrate NAIDOC Week (7-14 July).
On display until Sunday 14 July, the Kiray Putjung Aboriginal Art Trail starts at The Little Yengo Room in Wollombi and meanders through the town, with installations at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery, the council’s administration building, Cessnock and Kurri Kurri libraries as well as the Les Elvin Kungerra Gallery at the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre.
Featured artists include Lesley Salem and Saretta Fielding (pictured).
A proud Wonaruah woman, Fielding was born in Sydney to an Aboriginal father of the Wonaruah people and a European mother. She now calls Lake Macquarie home.
Fielding has enjoyed the benefit of growing up within a large, close-knit extended family and much of her work is influenced by family connection and relationships.
The art trail is part of a wide and varied program of NAIDOC Week events coordinated by Cessnock council.
NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme is Voice, Treaty, Truth.
Everyone is invited to participate in Cessnock’s celebrations, which will be held across the LGA until Wednesday 17 July.
Other highlights include a free Kiray Putjung NAIDOC Family Fun Day at TAFE Park on Saturday 6 July from 10am to 2pm, a totem pole painting masterclass, Aboriginal art and symbols workshop, native plant giveaway, story time and much more.
Go to cessnock.nsw.gov.au/NAIDOC to see the full program or pick up a copy from the council’s administration building or the city’s libraries.
More stories:
