The Artwork

This artwork was created through a workshop hosted by artist Lawson Dodd (Kaurna, Narungga, Ngarrindjeri) with students from Wiltja Boarding for Nunkuwarrin Yunti and Sonder. During the workshop, students were invited to illustrate their own vision for the Closing the Gap Day community event. Lawson then brought the final piece together by drawing on the many elements and story motifs found across the students’ individual artworks.

At the centre is a large meeting place surrounded by smaller ones, a concept that appeared throughout the students’ drawings. It represents people from the north, south, east and west gathering in one shared space, just as they do at Closing the Gap Day. The connecting pathways and circles reflect the exchange of knowledge, resources and support between communities.

Flowing rivers appear on either side of the artwork and were another strong idea from the students. The rivers speak to a healthy environment and the different journeys people take, whether travelling to the event or growing personally. Stars, a motif many students included, acknowledge their traditional role in navigation and symbolise guidance, hope and looking toward the future.

Animal tracks such as kangaroo, emu and grub were chosen to celebrate community diversity and to show that this is a place where everyone is welcome. Footprints represent the steps individuals take to improve their lives, while handprints highlight identity, connection and a sense of belonging.

To unify these elements, Lawson added soft plumes of smoke rising from the centre. Smoke is commonly used in traditional ceremonies to welcome and cleanse, giving the artwork a feeling of safety and cultural grounding.

By weaving together the students’ ideas with cultural symbolism and artistic storytelling, this piece stands as a collective expression of community, connection and purpose.

Lawson Dodd
Kaurna, Narungga, Ngarrindjeri artist from Ochre Dawn.