Journey as One

Norma MacDonald, Les MacDonald & Robyn Templeton

Title: Journey as One

Artist/s: Norma MacDonald, Les MacDonald & Robyn Templeton

Year: 2007

Category: Integrated

Site: Elizabeth Quay Station

Location Details: Elizabeth Quay Station - Upper Platform Wall

Description:

This artwork is a mixed media, threedimensional relief mosaic including glass, glass mosaics, ceramic, ceramic tiles, natural stone and aluminium. The mosaic consists of 12 segments each 1.8m high and 1.2m wide at the southern end of the station above the two tunnels. It presents a continuous narrative depicting the past, present and future association of the Nyoongar people with the Esplanade Station site.

Artist/s Statement:

Viewed in chronological order the mosaic interweaves old and new symbols expressing the journey of many cultures coming together to live as one. The Waugal is ever-present, showing the Spirit of the Country alive and constant. The Creator Being of the Nyoongar, the land, rocks, Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) the animals, fish, birds, the sun, moon and sky are one, deeply connected. Our ancestors and elders hold an integral part of our culture. Nyoongar people are still the caretakers of the land and the culture and the laws, and can teach us how to respect the land we share. Sails were the first images our people saw on the horizon as the settlers arrived. As the mosaic journey continues, the land changes and new symbols begin to emerge – wheels, machinery, farming, towns, and people from other lands. Sometimes the Waugal is covered by new inhabitants, reminding us of the times our people faced hardship, dispossession and assimilation. Changes with technology and industrialisation have evolved the land. The resilient Nyoongar people move with the tide of progress and continue to provide spiritual growth and harmonious fusion in the world - Journeying as One.