This artwork tells part of our story, journey and purpose of the Coroners Court. The artwork embodies the notion of supported healing for individuals, families and communities through their loss.
This artwork also highlights the importance of recognising that healing is not a linear process and that collaboratively the Coroners Court is a safe and respectful space.
This artwork represents the significance of the Coroners Court as a space integral to the healing journey for those who enter its doors. Supporting people through the loss of a loved one while creating a space where everyone can grieve in their own way, with cultural understanding and support.
At the centre of the artwork is a yarning circle, symbolising community and the importance that community holds for the Coroners Court. This yarning circle represents a sense of belonging, kinship and unity which are held in high regard by the court. This sense of community is reflective of the community-based approach taken by the court in walking alongside families in the midst or a dark and painful time in their lives.
Journey lines extend from this yarning circle to two gathering places which reflect a safe space for all community members to feel supported during their journey within the court process. These gathering places highlight the start of inner healing with the knowledge sticks within representing the sharing of knowledge to assist people on their healing journey with their grief, as shown by the journey lines extending off the canvas.
The yarning circle centred at the bottom is surrounded by people and knowledge sticks. This meeting place represents truth telling and is where we acknowledge the events of the past and empower people to be fearless in their pursuit of understanding and obtaining the knowledge behind the loss of a loved one. This space represents and reflects the understanding of trauma that families and communities go through and the importance of providing tailored, culturally safe support for people to start on their healing journey.
On either side of the central yarning circle are elements that represents the diverse paths of healing that the court supports with individuals, families and communities. The journey lines make their way off the canvas to represent that healing is a non-linear process, unique to each individual. The knowledge sticks symbolise the sharing of resources and support provided by the court, while acknowledging the weight carried by the findings surrounding a loved one’s passing.
Directly beneath the central yarning circle are three interconnected meeting places, symbolising how the past and present are connected in order to impact and influence the future. You cannot have one without the other. These connected meeting places reflect the courts ongoing process of listening, learning and reflecting, emphasising that moving forward requires understanding of the past. The court strives to leave a legacy or hope, where the knowledge gained from the findings of a passed loved one can help precent other families from feeling a similar loss and pain.
Above the central yarning circle are stars to represent the guidance provided by our Ancestors, that they are always with us, watching and leading us in the space and journey of navigating loss and grief. From our Ancestors, we draw strength to persevere and continue to learn from those around us in order to heal.
At the top of the artwork are connected watering holes to represent the sharing of knowledge but also the continuous efforts by the court to improve in providing culturally safe and appropriate ways or working with people. The court is committed to listening, reflecting and growing, both within itself and in its broader impact in community. The kangaroo tracks signify progress and movement, reflecting the ongoing journey of uncovering the truth behind a person’s passing.
The different Country Lines acknowledge the diverse lands across this nation, honour the fact that this land Always Was and Always Will Be Aboriginal Land.
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