By Eleanor Wilson
Bunjil Place Library was a scene of colour and culture last week, hosting a range of events to recognise NAIDOC Week.
Indigenous artist N’dene Riley led a community mural painting which saw library goers don their art smocks and delve into an afternoon of painting.
From Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags to dot paintings, the mural sought to promote the 2022 NAIDOC Week theme – Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!
The theme is a call to action that encourages all Australians to be part of systemic change to achieve equality for First Nations Peoples.
A Parrdarrama Pangenna and Six Rivers woman, Ms Riley only became aware of her Aboriginality about six years ago.
“It was always one of those things we questioned but we never knew for sure until about six years ago,” she said.
She said the support of the Indigenous community is what pushed her to pursue painting.
“They really encouraged me, they were the first ones to really help me … and then to put a long story short, I just started painting and trying to see if I had any talent there,” Ms Riley said.
A school teacher, Ms Riley now uses her skills for canvas painting, jewellery making and teaching.
She said NAIDOC Week is one of her favourite times of the year.
“It’s just full freedom. You can paint, you can draw, you can rest, you can work, you can contribute,” she said.
” It’s recognised, it collaborates with Torres Strait Islander people, and it’s about learning more about your own culture, its all of those wonderful things.”
“It really is special…and its really nice to know that the government and businesses are all involved as well.”
Casey Cardinia Library Corporations chief executive officer Beth Luppino said NAIDOC Week is an important week in the national calendar.
“We are keen to support the sharing of Indigenous history and stories throughout our community during NAIDOC week,” she said.
“Libraries play a vital role in education, and we do this by providing free and accessible library collections and fun activities like the mural painting and dance workshops.”
Aside from the community mural, Casey Cardinia Libraries also hosted an Aboriginal Dance Workshop and a NAIDOC colouring-in competition.
