The power of art and creativity can be harnessed to address sensitive issues and promote cultural understanding. The journey of a collage created by a student serves as a remarkable example of how a culturally insensitive book, accidentally included in class resources, was transformed into a powerful piece of artwork that not only deconstructed harmful narratives but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Torres Strait Islander people.

The Controversy: “They Came by Sea Terra Nullius to Crown Colony”

The controversy began with the inclusion of a book titled “They Came by Sea Terra Nullius to Crown Colony” in the class resources. A $2 book from Cheap as Chips had not gone through our library system, however it still made its way into the resource box. The book’s content was marred by cultural insensitivity and inaccuracies, perpetuating stereotypes, and distorting historical events. Discovered by Year 4 student Bodhi’s mother Toni Warner, the book was raised to Ms Tyrwhitt while attending the Long Walk event in Melbourne. After combing through the resources on return to Adelaide we came up with the idea to turn it into an artwork.

Deconstruction and Transformation: From Book to Artwork

The transformation process kicked off with the deconstruction of the book. Its pages were carefully dismantled, representing a metaphorical disassembly of its problematic content. Bodhi then turned his attention to collage and folding techniques, combining visual elements to reshape the narrative. What emerged from this process was a striking representation of a Torres Strait Islander Dhari, a traditional headdress of immense cultural significance.

The Dhari, also known as a doeri, has risen as an iconic emblem for the Torres Strait Islander community. Symbolising heritage, authority, and respect, the Dhari serves as a tangible reminder of the Islanders’ enduring connection to their land and history. By crafting the Dhari from the deconstructed book’s pages, Bodhi and his father turned a hurtful artifact into a powerful symbol of cultural pride and resilience.

The Symbolism: From Deconstruction to Reclamation

The transformative artwork wasn’t limited to its physical form; it also held layers of symbolism that spoke volumes. The Aboriginal flag colours, an embodiment of unity and identity, subtly emerged “between the lines” of the book cover. This play of colours was likened to the opening of blinds, shedding light on hidden truths, and allowing for a nuanced perspective. Just as one might “read between the lines” of a text, the artwork encouraged viewers to explore the layers of meaning and history concealed within its folds.

By repurposing a problematic book to create something beautiful and culturally meaningful, Bodhi and his father effectively reclaimed their narrative. The act of reimagining the offensive content as an emblem of cultural heritage demonstrated resilience and empowerment. It transformed the hurtful into the hopeful, proving that even the darkest narratives can be rewritten through creativity and collaboration.

Educational Impact and Beyond

The impact of this student-led initiative was not confined to the classroom. It sparked conversations about cultural sensitivity, the power of art in addressing complex issues, and the importance of revisiting and reinterpreting history. The artwork served as a visual reminder that art can be a potent tool for reconciliation, healing, and transformation.

As the artwork gained attention in the art room and Year 4 research into Dr Ali Baker’s “Sovereign Fleet” artworks seen in AGSA and Flinders University Art Gallery, it also contributed to the broader discourse around representation and cultural appreciation. The collage inspired us to reflect on our own understanding of cultural narratives and biases, sparking a movement towards inclusivity and empathy.

In the end, the story of Bodhi’s collage serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of marginalised communities and the potential for art to mend the wounds of cultural insensitivity. By turning an offensive book into a work of art that celebrated Torres Strait Islander culture, Bodhi and his father Eddie demonstrated the profound impact that creativity, sensitivity, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths can have on shaping a more enlightened society.

Kate Tyrwhitt, Art & Design Teacher, Innovation and Indigenous Education Coordinator