Villawood East Public School

Art That Connects: Celebrating Community and Culture at Villawood East Public School

Their Story:

In collaboration with their school community, local elders, and Song Room Teaching Artist Koreena Leverett, a proud Worimi woman, students at Villawood East Public School embarked on an inspiring creative and cultural journey.

Over the course of a semester, they transformed their learning into vibrant wall murals that now greet everyone at the school entrance. What began as simple brainstorming sessions blossomed into rich, collaborative paintings that weave their way across the school walls.

These stunning murals celebrate the journey of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students learning from one another and embracing the beauty of First Nations culture. The design symbolizes their shared path towards knowledge, understanding, and reconciliation, capturing the essence of their collective growth and unity.

Why it’s special:

This project has profoundly impacted the students, enhancing their wellbeing, boosting their confidence, and nurturing a strong sense of self. By engaging with First Nations culture through art, students have not only deepened their understanding of these rich traditions but also strengthened their bonds with the school and each other. These shared creative experiences have ignited a sense of pride in their heritage, and the murals stand as a joyful, lasting testament to their shared journey and the deepening sense of belonging among the students.

Unveiled during a special school celebration, these murals invite students to celebrate their creativity and culture at the start and end of each day, serving as a colourful reminder of the community they are part of. As one student joyfully expressed, “Being part of Song Room makes me proud of who I am and where I’m from. I can’t wait for Song Room days!”

(All Villawood East images thanks to Jacquie Manning.)