Unveiled in May 2019, A Guidance Through Time created by Quandamooka artists Casey Coolwell and Kyra Mancktelow for The University of Queensland Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has now inspired a range of gifts and accessories.
Quandamooka artists Casey Coolwell and Kyra Mancktelow have produced an artwork that recognises our three major campuses, while also championing the creation of a strong sense of belonging and truth-telling about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, and ongoing connections with Country, knowledges, culture and kin.
Artist Casey Coolwell is a Quandamooka, Nunukul woman from Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) with links to the Mardigan people of Cunnamulla and South Sea Islanders. She now lives and works in Brisbane with CHABOO Indigenous design firm, creating artwork of great significance and artistic talent.
Emerging artist Kyra Mancktelow works alongside Casey in Brisbane's CHABOO, a Quandamooka woman with links to the Mardigan people of Cunnamulla and South Sea Islanders. Currently studying a Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art at the Queensland College of Art, she boasts deadly skills in painting, print work and sculpturing.
Quandamooka artists Casey Coolwell and Kyra Mancktelow
The artwork, A Guidance Through Time can be read in three sections, starting with the blue/greys of the Herston campus, the purple of St Lucia and the orange/golds of Gatton.
The graphic elements overlaying the coloured background symbolise the five UQ values. The Brisbane River and its patterns represent UQ's Pursuit of excellence. Within the River are tools used by Aboriginal people to teach, gather, hunt and protect. Creativity and independent thinking is depicted through the spirit guardian, Jarjum (Child in Yugambeh language), and the kangaroo. Lastly, the jacaranda tree, bora ring, animal prints, footprints and stars collectively represent Honesty and accountability, Mutual respect and diversity and Supporting our people.
A range of gifts and accessories designed to promote UQ's commitment to reconciliation, is adorned with the vibrant Brisbane River pattern. Profits from the Collection will be donated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student scholarships and programs.
A Guidance Through Time is currently displayed in the Brian Wilson Chancellery building. The Reconciliation Collection is now available to purchase in-store and online.
UQ’s Reconciliation Action Plan can be viewed here.
