A series of public art panels have been given a second life, going on display in the Parkes CBD for the second time as part of this year’s NAIDOC celebrations. Council have partnered with the St Vincent de Paul Society to have the ‘Erratic Symbiosis, Unearthing Past Voices – Sowing Future Visions’ panels installed on the exterior wall of the Parkes Vinnies shop, facing the Post Office carpark.
The artwork was part of a temporary exhibition back in 2017, formally located on the corner of Church and Clarinda Streets, as part of the NAIDOC celebrations that year. Council’s Destination Marketing Manager, Kelly Hendry said “by repurposing the panels, we are extending the life of the artwork, brightening the CBD, giving exposure to the
local artists, but more importantly, promoting the message of reconciliation and working together as a community for a shared future.”
“A big thank you to the St Vincent de Paul Society for supporting the public art program and offering their wall to display the artwork.”
The paintings were a collaborative project between Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups and individuals, including local artists Scott Turnbull, Sean Cassidy and Scott ‘Sauce’ Towney, as well as Parkes Painters, Parkes Potters and Craft Corner. The panels have just been installed in their new location, to coincide with 2019 NAIDOC
Week (7 – 14 July).
Wilcannia Forbes Central Council Executive Officer of the St Vincent de Paul Society, Kelly Morgan said “we are honoured to have this artwork displayed on the wall of our Vinnies store in such a prominent position in the lead up to NAIDOC Week.”
“This is an opportunity for the Society to reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” said Ms Morgan.