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Western Terrace: Flowing Connections
An immersive workshop led by Darug artist Jessica Tobin and Gadigal artist Akala Newman, where they explored the deep cultural significance of waterways and the intricate connections between the Darug and Gadigal clans.
Participants joined a unique and immersive workshop led by Darug artist Jessica Tobin and Gadigal artist Akala Newman, where they explored the deep cultural significance of waterways and the intricate connections between the Darug and Gadigal clans. The workshop took participants on a creative journey through the history and stories embedded in the rivers, creeks, and harbors that flow through the Sydney region. The artists shared their knowledge of how waterways have shaped identities, spiritual practices, and connections between the Darug and Gadigal people for thousands of years.
Through traditional and contemporary techniques using weaving and poetry, participants gained a deeper understanding of how these waterways served as vital pathways for communication, trade, and cultural exchange, linking the Darug and Gadigal communities across the land.
Meet The Artists
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Jessica is an Darug artist, born in the Blue Mountains with ongoing connection to her traditional Country. She is a descendent of the Boorooberongal and Wumali clans of the Darug, the traditional custodians of the Greater Western Sydney region. She is currently an Artist Educator at the Museum of Contemporary Art and works as a freelance artist and designer.
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Akala Newman is a Wiradjuri/Gadigal multi-disciplined performer, songwriter, educator and cultural producer whose experience includes cultural care practices. Her artistry is influenced by fantasy and magic; she challenges the notion of what it means to be a First Nations woman today and to live by your own narrative.
Akala began her producing career at Moogahlin Performing Arts (Carriageworks), is now a First Nations Consultant at Arts and Cultural Exchange in Parramatta; First Nations Academic lecturer, and Student Coordinator at the National Art School; Artist Educator at the Museum of Contemporary Arts; and Intimacy Coordinator with Key Intimate Scenes Australia. In 2023. Akala received both the Koori Radio Artist Residency and The Red Rattler Artist Residency where she received funding from Create NSW to begin her curated event Gili Gatherings (To 'Shine' in Gadigal language) she continues her art practices and working with the community to inspire, uplift and celebrate First People’s Voices.