Emily Rose (b. 1991)
Noongar Six Seasons, 2023
Adapted from digital, 7170 x 1795mm.
About the artwork: "I often go out on Country with my nana, Norma MacDonald, who is my mentor. She has taught me the importance of keeping traditions alive while embracing contemporary approaches to share our culture. Inspired by her guidance, I wanted this artwork to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern technology in the arts.
For the first stage, my nana and I collected fallen natural bush fibers, which we brought back to her studio. There, I created ephemeral artworks inspired by the connection to Country and the rhythms of its seasons. To further develop this concept, I layered digital art to represent the Noongar six seasons, with each season capturing its unique traits and transitions.
This artwork highlights the interconnectedness of the seasons, showing how plants and animals adapt and persist through soft, natural changes. By sitting, listening, and observing, we can see the signs and stories held by Country year-round."
About the artist: Emily Rose is a fourth-generation Noongar/Yamatji artist based in Boorloo/Perth. Drawing inspiration from Country, culture, and community, her work celebrates traditional stories, connection to land, and the resilience of Indigenous knowledge. Specializing in painting and public art, Emily creates immersive pieces that honor Women’s Business and intergenerational healing. With a background in workshops and community engagement, Emily is passionate about creating culturally safe spaces that foster creativity, learning, and connection through art.
Location: Murdoch campus, T Block, first-floor staircase
Courtesy of the artist
Levi Islam (b. 1983)
For Our Elders, 2023
Sculpture, 1750mm x 152mm x 2159mm
About the artwork: One Totem depicts symbols and icons that speak to the importance of honouring the Strength & Resilience of Elders Past, Wisdom & Humility of Elders Present, represented by the three Cockatoo feathers and the shared responsibility of community to raise and feed into the lives of Future Elders. Noting the Journeys of resilience, determination, and promise represented by a combination of burnt and carved lines.
The other Totem depicts the tools to pursue the related food sources, drawing the parallels to education, training, and employment.
What we do today is For Our Elders – to honour the Resilience of those Past, the Determination of those Present, and shared responsibility to build into the lives and Promise of those who will one day be the Elders of the Future.
The sculpture was revealed at the South Metropolitan TAFE Fremantle campus as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations.
About the artist: Levi Islam is a Koori artist, hailing from Wiradjuri and Yorta Yorta nations in Victoria, holding a strong connection to Whadjuk Boodjah built over many years serving the local Noongar community through family ties within Indich and Nannup families.
Location: Fremantle campus, courtyard
Courtesy of the artist