Local artist celebrates culture and community with mural displayed on Shire of Dardanup building

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Local artist celebrates culture and community with mural displayed on Shire of Dardanup building

An emerging South West artist is looking to bring the community together with their latest artwork proudly displayed on the Shire of Dardanup building.

Local artist Grace Janowicz was selected from a pool of artists to decorate the building, after they won the RCR NAIDOC Week Art Competition, an annual event held by RCR Mining Technologies.

Janowicz brought their artwork to life in a week-long live painting session in Eaton.

Titled Wanju — which means “welcome” in Noongar language — the mural is a celebration of place, people and culture.

Camera IconShire of Dardanup president Tyrrell Gardiner, RCR advanced technologies manager Neville Kelly, art teacher Annie Labriola and Grace Janowicz. Credit: Supplied

Shire of Dardanup president Tyrrell Gardiner said the artwork strongly resonated with the Shire’s own commitment to welcome and include everyone in the community.

“Grace’s mural stood out for its bold street-art style and thoughtful reflection of life in the Shire of Dardanup,” Cr Gardiner said.

“It beautifully captures an inclusive and accessible community, Aboriginal culture and connection to country, local sport and events, the Collie River, the Ferguson Valley, and the importance of the new library as a community hub.

“We’re incredibly proud to display this artwork that not only highlights the skills of a brilliant young local artist, but also acknowledges the importance of connection to culture, to community, and to one another.”

Ms Janowicz said the project pushed them out of their comfort zone, but in the best possible way.

“This is my first large-scale wall painting. I usually work on realistic portraits, collages and oil paintings that explore much darker or more macabre themes, so this was a big shift for me creatively,” they said.

Janowicz used bold, vibrant blocks of colour to bring the concept to life, which the artist hoped would be uplifting and meaningful.

“When I look at the mural now, I see strong connections to community and country,” they said.

“There are so many different elements in the design. The figures are represented using traditional symbols for the people, and the river element flows like a path, leading to a central community gathering place. The Aboriginal flag is also an important focal point.”

“I wanted to create something bright and fun to look at, but also something that connects people to the cultural roots of the land.”

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