Aboriginal artist inspires Emanuel School students
Sydney’s Emanuel School students immersed themselves in Aboriginal art and culture during the School’s first Aboriginal Art Week.
Jake Narunsky, Tio and Sacha Rosen
The students and staff were honoured to welcome acclaimed Aboriginal artist and musician, Kurun Warun (Tio) as artist-in-residence. Kurun Warun, whose name means Hissing Swan, is a member of the indigenous Guntijamara tribe and is a descendant of Truganini, the last Tasmanian indigenous queen, spent the week inspiring and educating the students about Aboriginal culture and art. Students learnt various Aboriginal art techniques such as dot painting as well as using shape, colour and texture to create visually stunning works.
Tio was inspired by the students’ attitude towards the experience, “It was an absolute pleasure to work with such respectful children. It was special to see their enthusiasm to learn and be guided to develop their own feelings on the canvas.”
Natanya Milner, Deputy Principal Primary, who was the brainchild of the event, said, “It was amazing to be in the art lessons as they were taking place. The children were engrossed in learning from Tio. He was so generous with his time and knowledge. They also had the unique opportunity to paint while he played the didgeridoo for them.”
Children at Kornmehl Emanuel Pre-school also took part in the Art Week with an interactive performance by Aunty Wendy who delighted them with her stories and songs about Aboriginal culture. Aboriginal artist, Jacquelyn Davison, worked with Pre-schoolers to create a collaborative piece using Aboriginal symbols and colours.
Emanuel School is planning an Art Show in November for parents where the work will be displayed and available for purchase.
