Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and safeguarding, sharing and celebrating First Nations’ living cultures.
First ‘Healing Circle’ Launched
photo credit: Anelia Blackie, The Border Watch, Auntie Penny BonneyThe mosaic faces, designed by Goolwa artist Mike Tye, were created with the help of local indigenous community members who were guided by project manager Robert Miles.
Message circles symbolise the three “message sticks” which form an important part of Aboriginal culture – ceremony and talk, hunt and gather and song and dance.
The three circles will be a place where people can gather for decision making, where rules for living are made and life goals are set. It is also a place for people to visit for contemplation.
A carefully planned garden where plants are grown for eating, medicinal use and ceremonial purposes surrounds the circles.
The launch was a milestone achievement in the Healing Circles journey. The celebration began with Uncle Mikey Hartman doing Welcome to Country and Auntie Penny Bonney (pictured) the smoking ceremony.
Following the launch there was a ceremonial handing over of the message sticks from Karen Glover to the incoming CEO David Copley.
This project was supported by Country Arts SA and the Regional Arts Fund.