Connection to Country shared through art

Caring for landscapes is about more than land and water, it’s also about people, relationships and longstanding connections to Country.

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is proud to share new First Nations artwork that reflects these connections and the values that guide our work across the region. Created by Ngarrindjeri artist Jamaya Branson, the artwork brings together five priorities - land, water, nature, climate and community through a cultural lens grounded in care, healing and continuity.

Developed for the new landscape plan through a culturally guided approach, the artwork reflects not only the priorities of the Landscape Board, but the importance of working respectfully and in partnership.

Nature is represented through eucalyptus leaves layered over light and dark brown dots, reflecting the many trees across the landscape and the Country on which they grow.
Land is shown from a bird’s‑eye view, with varied colours and meeting places across the region, highlighting connection and shared responsibility.
Water flows through the artwork as interconnected waterways - rivers, lakes, creeks, oceans and streams - a vital life source connecting all parts of Ruwe (Country), for people and animals.
Climate is represented through the sun, rainfall, storms and clouds. The sun, an important cultural element, symbolises renewal and the conditions that help land and life thrive.

Together, these elements reinforce the deep connections between land, water, climate, nature and community, shared through a medium that has been used by Aboriginal people to pass on stories for thousands of years.

“Art is a powerful way to share cultural stories. Some stories are told through dance, song or word of mouth, but I choose to share my stories and perspectives through art. It’s something Aboriginal people have done forever, and this is my way of continuing that, passing stories on and leaving my mark as an Aboriginal woman. 

“I’m very intentional with the symbolism and the stories in my work. Art becomes a conversation starter, it opens the doorway for people to connect and to engage more deeply with culture. It allows those stories to come to life,” said Ms Branson. 

“Art takes time and is a part of who I am - I create from the heart and the mind. There’s an unmatched feeling in bringing a piece to life from start to finish. Every dot is intentional, every line carries meaning, and I enjoy being able to express my perspective of Country in this way.”

Guided by cultural knowledge and care

To select an artist, a culturally grounded assessment panel was formed, bringing together representatives from the peak-body Peramangk, Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri organisations.

Panel members undertook this role alongside family, work and community responsibilities, providing their perspectives and guidance to help ensure the process was respectful and grounded in relationships.

Caroline Dorr, Team Leader for Regional Engagement at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu, said the contribution of panel members was central to the project.

“We are sincerely grateful to the panel members who generously shared their time, insight and care throughout this process. Their contribution helped ensure the artwork reflects genuine connection to Country and community and is a strong example of how we aspire to work - in partnership and with respect.”