Mosaic Mural unveiled in Victor Harbor

Months in the making, the mosaic mural reflecting the enduring cultural aspects of the Ngarrindjeri – Ramindjeri people was completed in early May.

Artists Mike Tye and Didge McHughes were among the crowd at its launch on May 16 out the front of the Victor Harbor Medical Clinic (Old Court House). The mosaic is a part of a creative partnership program between Country Arts SA, its Change and Adaptation program, and Southern Adelaide Fleurieu Kangaroo Island (SAFKI) Medicare Local.

Jasmine Bald, Aboriginal Health Leader, SAFKI Medicare Local and Deb Sparkes, Rural  Coordinator, SAFKI Medicare Local. Credit: Richard Hodges

Creative Producer, Change and Adaptation, Ollie Black said the launch was a great way to celebrate the artists’ work and to reflect on its meaning. “It was great to hear Ngarrindjeri artist Didge McHughes, who worked on the research and installation of the mural, speak about how important health check-ups are for Aboriginal people to identify ‘silent but deadly’ conditions,” she said.

Didge McHughes, Mike Tye and Didge’s grandson Punthi
Credit: Richard Hodges

Deb Sparkes, Rural Coordinator, SAFKI Medicare Local added that the SAFKI Medicare Local Closing the Gap program has worked closely with Country Arts SA and directly with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to produce this mosaic mural.

Jasmine Bald, Aboriginal Health Leader, SAFKI Medicare Local said the artwork was a “significant piece” for the local Aboriginal community.

“This piece of artwork is a beautiful visual reminder and cultural representation of the communities that we serve,’’ she said. “It is an innovative way to depict the cultural aspects of the Ngarrindjeri – Ramindjeri people, their health and wellbeing and their connection with country, past and into the future. This is a significant piece for the local Aboriginal community but also for the community at large. Well done to all of those involved in developing this.”

 Credit: Richard Hodges

Creative Adviser, Change and Adaptation, Cath Cantlon said the partnership between  Country Arts SA and SAFKI Medicare Local “has delivered this dynamic mosaic to the public as a reminder that Aboriginal cultural heritage is key to present day wellbeing”.

“The mosaic depicts the thoughts of Elders of Narrindjeri/Ramindjeri  about what is important to wellbeing in their lives and all our lives,” she said.

“The launch of the artwork on Friday was well attended by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people which is testimony to its success.”