CDU launches new First Nations branding with ‘Wise One'
Charles Darwin University (CDU) has announced its new First Nations branding, with Aboriginal artist and CDU Bachelor of Primary Education student Sharona Dardoongarly Bishop winning the University’s design competition for her work ‘Wise One.’
Incorporating the rich symbolism and vibrant imagery of the Ngaringman people of the Northern Territory, the artwork will be a centrepiece in CDUs visual identity - featuring across the First Nations Student Support Guide and student site ‘Campfire;’ as well as across the University’s First Nations apparel and wider student, staff and alumni network.
Speaking at a recent special celebration event at the University’s Casuarina Campus, Ms Bishop said she was “stoked” at the opportunity to share her artwork with the wider community.
“I’m from a small homeland called Bob’s Yard in Judbarra (Gregory National Park) and my Dreamtime stories come from my grandparents who have sadly passed on,” Sharona explained.
"The symbols on my artworks, the patterns and colours, they represent the history of my people – of Australia.
“When people see my artwork I want them to feel and know that it doesn’t matter who they are or where they come from, they have a rich shared culture as an Australian and that’s something to be proud of.”
Voted unanimously by a panel of judges that included CDU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Scott Bowman AO and Deputy Vice-Chancellor First Nations Leadership, Professor Reuben Bolt, Professor Bowman said the complexity of the work was a considerable drawcard in its selection.
"We had ‘Wise One’ up on a computer and at first you think it's a cockatoo but the closer you delve into it there’s more and more pictures,” he said.
“The image itself is great, but there are designs in here that can be used again and again – just one of the feathers is a work of art, it’s incredible.
“The project underscores CDUs commitment to honouring First Nations culture and supporting First Nations voices, and to know that we have got such incredible talent amongst our student group is just wonderful.”
Related Articles
CDU to expand allied health services in Darwin
Read more about CDU to expand allied health services in DarwinTerritorians will be able to access a greater variety of allied health services with the expansion of the Northern Territory’s first and only professionally supervised, student-delivered, multidisciplinary health centre.
Historian, trailblazer, community advocate and more recognised at Alumni Awards
Read more about Historian, trailblazer, community advocate and more recognised at Alumni AwardsA prominent local historian and museum curator is among those recognised for their contributions to the community at Charles Darwin University’s 2024 Alumni Awards.
CDU students pitch sustainable solution to medical waste
Read more about CDU students pitch sustainable solution to medical wasteCharles Darwin University have participated in their first international Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition, with students pitching a sustainable solution to the growing problem of medical waste.