Three different artists where commissioned by Burwood Council to develop artworks surrounding the theme Burwood Throughout Time. Asked to reference both Harmony Day and Heritage under this theme, each artist created a work specific to the changing demographics, vision and face of Burwood. This project was supported and guided by Burwood Council's Multicultural Advisory Committee.
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Artist: Noni Cragg
Cragg is an Inner West based artist who is of Irish, Scottish, Bundjalung and Biripai Heritage.
Artist Statement:
The design recognises and celebrates First Nations ownership and custodianship of the Burwood Local Government area. Wangal Lands and waters extend from Goat Island around Balmain stretching inland along the Southern shoreline of the Parramatta River, known as Burramattagal in Dharug which means Place of the eels, almost right through to present day City of Parramatta. Located near to present day Parramatta road and River, this design depicts the relationship the Wangal People have with the river system. The water motif, represents the Parramatta River which offers food sources such as yams and eels. Yams can be identified by their beautiful yellow flowers; the Murnong Daisy. These flank the large motif used to depict the river. Wangal people farmed yams by careful and purposeful planting along the river. Eels, another source of food provided by the river is shown in the design on top of the river motif.
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Artist: Alicia McFadzean
Originally from Australia now living and working in South Africa, McFadzean specialises in illustration, murals, hand lettering and design.
Artist Statement:
This artwork reflects upon the heritage items still found in Burwood today, with visual motifs representing the Burwood train station; opened in 1855 as one of the original stops between Sydney City and Parramatta and the historic Burwood post office clock tower, build in 1892. The stylisation of Burwood Throughout Time harks back to old school hand painted sign writing and advertising commonly seen around the Burwood railway.
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Artist: Christina Huynh
Artist Statement:
This year's 2021 Harmony day banners include a gathering of favourite past time trinkets in a stone embellished candle, symbols of good luck and prosperity in the paper crane and lotus and lastly, iconic and most loved cuisines. These elements weaved together to celebrate a gathering of a rich diversity of backgrounds and cultures and the appreciation of everyday residents of Burwood today.
