If you frequent the River Torrens Linear Park path along Flinders Park you’d no doubt have seen the beautiful mural adorning the Holbrooks Road underpass, and featured on the cover our previous edition of Kaleidoscope.
Visible from Holbrooks Road, the mural was a collaboration between Aboriginal artist Shane Mankitya Cook and students from the adjacent Nazareth High School. Working with the students through development of the design, the collaboration also provided young people with an Aboriginal cultural learning experience. Not only does the mural brighten the space but it highlights the cultural importance of the river. The mural, painted by Shane Mankitya Cook and Tom Readett, is using contemporary colours chosen by the students.
The linear park has a high level of usage both by walkers and cyclists and is a key link between the city and the beach. The underpass location has traditionally experienced a high level of tagging and this mural opportunity is seen as a positive way to change this and acknowledge the importance of Kaurna Lands and rivers.
We asked some of the students involved, what they enjoyed most about the process:
“Getting to brainstorm and experiment with different art mediums. I also liked getting to try some aboriginal artwork.”
“It felt really cool to get to be a part of an art project that would be displayed outside of the school.” Bianca - Year 8 Student, Nazareth Catholic College
“That something I designed and is special to me will be included in the mural.” Marie - Year 8 Student, Nazareth Catholic College
“Thinking of what plants and design have significance or importance behind them and thinking outside the square.” Elysia - Year 8 Student, Nazareth Catholic College
“That we could express ourselves on paper. I feel proud about being involved and contributing.” Ruby - Year 8 Student, Nazareth Catholic College
