David Lee Pereira and Amina Briggs were all too keen to jump straight on the tools for 2024, tackling two walls along the rail corridor in Ferntree Gully. The two artists collaborated to create a cohesive design that spanned across both walls, and represented themes of environmental consciousness and First Nations heritage.
As a foundation for the mural, Amina painted traditional Boonwurrung symbols in the form of diamonds; these symbols represent the Boonwurrung mob and challenge the misconception that Aboriginal people only use dot motifs in their artwork. Diamonds are of great significance to the Boonwurrung because of their connection and representation of the Boonwurrung land; sharp lines show both a resemblance to the Yarra River (Birrarung: River of Mists) and the lines seen within rocks and tree barks.
David’s work overlays Amina’s traditional diamond motif, figuratively and literally building upon layers of history and expressing the evolution of Ferntree Gully itself. The Maidenhair Fern has been selected as an endemic species of the Dandenong ranges which recognises and pays respect to the Land that came long before us. Scattered amongst the foliage are plastic zip ties which have been used by the artist to represent the impact of our own presence on the natural landscape. This statement of environmental awareness is important for David particularly, as someone fascinated and constantly inspired by the natural environment.
Waa, the Australian Raven, serves as the protector of the waterways in Melbourne. The train lines themselves are a modern representation of waterways, flowing through Melbourne as a means of transportation. Historically, waterways held immense importance for Amina’s Boonwurrung ancestors, providing sustenance, safe passage, and essential resources. Water remains a cornerstone of significance for the Boonwurrung people, and so Waa symbolises the spirit of safe passage for both passengers and conductors on the metropolitan railways.
As the title ‘New Natural’ suggests, this mural is a commentary of the natural world adapting to the presence of plastic, human infrastructure and the footprint we leave behind.
Proudly supported by Knox City Council. PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY BY AWOKEN ELK MEDIA
