Cultural Reflections – Systems of Sustainability

Cultural Reflections—Systems of Sustainability #1 features an interlocking network of tree limbs, leaves, power lines and crows in a repeating pattern that speaks of infinity through an encompassing First Nations’ lens. If this lens was utilised and incorporated, we would understand plants, humans, animals, land, sea and sky as all interconnected and interdependent.

Reinforcing the continuing presence and patterns of Aboriginal history, culture and knowledge in the contemporary Australian landscape, Cultural Reflections—Systems of Sustainability #1 features a strong vertical architecture of gleaming trees limbs, corridors of light and watchful crows (a Barkindji and Kulin Nations moiety), while interconnecting power lines zigzag horizontally across the picture plane.

The work speaks to the incorporation of Indigenous knowledges and philosophies in ecosystem management in Australia. To rethink and reshape the tenets of existence and see Country not only as a resource, we need a more balanced and culturally informed system in place to provide the possibility of a sustainable future.