Calling young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for an art competition

Wollongong City Libraries has launched its Children's Acknowledgement of Country Art Competition and is calling on young local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to enter.

Open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged between 12 and 18 years, we’re inviting original artworks that convey our community’s connection to Country.

“We’re looking to see what connection to Country means to young people from the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island community,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“This is a great opportunity for young artists to tap into their love of Country and their imaginations to create something that will be displayed in all of our Wollongong City Libraries. We’re hoping to find an artwork that represents and celebrates nature, the environment, and wildlife of the place they call home.”

Submitted work needs to be original and either hand-drawn or painted on paper or canvas. A short statement about the meaning of the artwork is also required.

The competition will be used to select an artwork that will be included in Council’s Children’s Acknowledgement of Country, which will be on display in all library locations.

The winner will win a $500 gift card. Competition closes 5pm Thursday 31 March 2022.

“Although there may be one ‘successful’ applicant, we want to also recognise all the young people who submit an entry by featuring all of the submissions in an online Library exhibition later this year,” Cr Bradbery said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the entries we receive, and I encourage young local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to enter this competition and share their artwork and creativity with their community.”

Visit Wollongong City Libraries’ website for details on how to enter and our terms and conditions.

Wollongong City Library Children’s Acknowledgement of Country

Here is the land

Here is the sky

Here are my friends

And here am I.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,

We acknowledge you today.

With kindness and friendship,

Together we learn and play.

Thank you Elders past, present and future

For letting us all share,

The Dharawal Land that you love,

We promise to take care.