Three local Aboriginal artists have been selected to create unique, inspirational artworks to be incorporated into the design of the new Sanctuary Point Library.
Based on feedback, the community asked for local indigenous art to be included in the project, with construction to begin later this year and complete mid-2025.
The library will inject new life into the Sanctuary Point village by providing access to technology and information, a place for meeting, collaborating, connecting and studying, and access to business spaces, reader services and collections.
Mayor Amanda Findley was excited to announce the artists who have designed different mediums of artwork that reflect Indigenous cultural heritage. They are Wandi Wandandian artist, Tracey Van Oploo, South Coast Dharawal artist, Jaz Corr and Wandi Wandian / Murramamarang artist, Michael Robinson.
“I’m proud to see local artists producing such awe-inspiring artwork that will weave Indigenous culture into the fabric of the library and represent a connection to Country in innovative ways,” said Cr Findley.
“This project provides an opportunity for local artists to build their careers and tell their story as First Nations people that reads as an interconnected narrative for everyone to engage with,” she said.
The stories and knowledge of First Nations people have informed the cultural narrative and created a thematic journey as the public move through the site. The themes are sea, land and sky and the commissioned works will be visible to pedestrians at ground and rooftop levels:
SEA | Freestanding sculpture and water feature
Michael Robinson’s freestanding sculpture represents the sea and will stand outside the library as an identifiable landmark for the site. It will be integrated with landscape design and include a water feature, Michael’s proposed carvings have an emphasis on traditional utilitarian purpose as well as aesthetic value in each piece of artwork.
LAND | Sunshades
The work of Tracey Van Oploo represents the inlet that runs from St Georges Basin to the ocean. The three main parts represent water, escarpment and connections, with flora and fauna throughout. This element of land will be integrated onto the sunshades of the building.
SKY | Embedded lighting artwork
Jaz Corr will be producing LED lighting artwork on the ceiling representing the sky, which celebrates First Nations science and astronomy that creates a visual interest day and night.
Image: Shoalhaven City Council
