The annual National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day was celebrated on Sunday with a vibrant painting workshop hosted by the South East Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation (SETAC) in Cygnet.
Led by Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Reuben Oates, the collaboration brought together community members of all ages for a day of cultural expression and connection.
“This year’s Children’s Day theme, Strong in Culture, Stronger Together, resonates deeply with me,” said Reuben. “Our culture and identity are at the core of who we are, allowing us to connect with our environment and community.
“Togetherness and acceptance are essential for a healthy culture and community.
“We are stronger when we come together.”
Amanda Pearn from SETAC organised the event and shares Reuben’s passion.
“It was a great day and I think everyone thoroughly enjoyed it.
“National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day is celebrated every year on August 4,” explained Amanda.
“This day was chosen in 1988 to communally celebrate the birthdays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people taken from their families at a young age; the Stolen Generations.”
This year’s theme, ‘Strong In Culture, Stronger Together,’ highlighted the importance of cultural strength and community bonds.
“Focusing on the strength of our children that comes from their connection to culture and mob,” Amanda continued.
“Showing them that their culture is the most sacred, strong and important asset that they can have.
“If our children are strong in culture, then they are strong in their identity.”
The workshop was packed with community members listening and learning with their children, engaging in the art and having a yarn.
“I was really happy with how the event went and how the children interacted, I loved hearing the feedback from the children and adults,” Amanda shared.
Finlay, one of the young attendees, said, “I like doing art because it makes me feel calm.
“All the dots, lines and squiggles make me feel really calm when I do them.”
Another participant, Frankie, added, “It was fun and inspiring.”
Reuben was impressed by the children’s skills at the workshop.
“I was blown away by the level of talent in the group of kids I worked with during the painting workshop.
“Their deep engagement in storytelling through their art was truly inspiring.
“The creativity and passion they showed gives me hope for the future growth of our culture”
Reuben plans to run more workshops in the future.
“Art workshops are something I am passionate about and something I would love to hold more regularly, for both youth and adults.
“Art encourages conversation and through sharing stories, we can deepen our connection to culture.
“It is through these conversations that we can truly understand and appreciate our heritage.”
