Authentically Embedding First Nations Perspectives with Jaelene Durrand

12pm – 1pm Thursday the 24th April 2025

In this webinar, Artist and Arts Educator based in the Atherton Tablelands, Jaelene Durrand, will discuss and advocate for an authentic approach to Australian art education in high schools. Jaelene will discuss emphasising the importance of fostering meaningful connections with Indigenous cultures while avoiding the pitfalls of dot appropriation. Central to this approach is a classroom activity that engages students in exploring Indigenous cultural stories and the ecological significance of native plants to First Nations peoples.

The activity aligned with the V9 Curriculum begins with an examination of Indigenous knowledge systems regarding native plants, highlighting their cultural significance and ecological importance within traditional Indigenous practices. Students create their own paper embedded with native plants, immersing themselves in the tactile experience and fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between culture and nature. This initial step serves as a foundation for further exploration into Indigenous art-making techniques. #qatacon24 Students then make hand-cut stencils, drawing inspiration from Indigenous motifs and patterns found in nature. Using gelli plates and acrylic paint, they transfer their stencil designs onto the paper embedded with native plants, experimenting with colour, texture, and composition to express their interpretations of Indigenous cultural stories and ecological relationships. As a culminating activity, students embellish their prints with details using paint pens, adding layers of meaning and personal expression to their artwork.

Throughout the process, emphasis is placed on respectful engagement with Indigenous cultural practices, encouraging students to reflect on the significance of their artistic creations within broader socio-cultural contexts. By engaging in this holistic and culturally responsive approach to art education, students not only develop technical skills but also cultivate empathy, appreciation, and respect for Indigenous cultures and their connection to the land.

What to Bring:

Please bring questions to discuss with Jaelene. Flying Arts also recommends having note-taking materials on hand.

Additional Information:

This online session will be held via ClickMeeting a webinar broadcasting room. The webinar will be recorded and uploaded to Flying Arts’ YouTube after the program concludes.

To discuss specific access needs, please contact program@flyingarts.org.au.