About the artwork
The artwork combines the hand painting storytelling and symbols of the oldest continuous culture in the world with the modern digital graphic design of the satellite sky.
'Connection' by Bobbi Lockyer
'Connection' on sand background
Country Motifs
Five circular symbols each representing a distinct Aboriginal country: saltwater, rainforest, desert, sky, and freshwater. The colours within these circles—blue for the sky, orange for the earth, and cream for the sand—echo the natural elements that define each region.
Freshwater
Within the freshwater motif, intricate symbols depict the meandering paths of rivers, serving as lifelines that connect communities across vast distances. The representation of freshwater embodies purity, sustenance, and vitality, while the presence of grass symbols signifies not only the flourishing ecosystems sustained by rivers but also the promise of growth and renewal that water brings to the land.
Rainforest
The rainforest motif bursts with symbols representing the abundance of tropical ecosystems, from the gentle patter of raindrops to the representation of ancient trees with the central tree-ring circles. Water is depicted evoking the interconnectedness of life within these biodiverse realms. Each element within this circle symbolises vitality of rainforest communities, where the rhythms of nature shape daily existence.
Desert
Within the desert motif, bold symbols reminiscent of Sandhills and the resilient spinifex plant are intricately woven, capturing the essence of vast, arid landscapes. These symbols speak to the harsh beauty and profound tranquillity of desert regions, where life endures against the odds. Each element is painted against a backdrop of red earth.
Sky
In the sky motif, celestial symbols represent constellations that have guided generations of Aboriginal peoples across the vast expanse of the night sky. A central sun radiates warmth and light, surrounded by stars that twinkle with the promise of connection and discovery. Interwoven with these cosmic symbols are representations of community and growth, echoing the enduring significance of the sky as a source of inspiration and wonder.
Saltwater
The saltwater motif is adorned with water lines resembling the ebb and flow of ocean waves, evoking the dynamic relationship between land and sea. In the centre among these lines are seashell symbols, representative of coastal communities and the rich marine life that thrives in saltwater environments. Against a sandy background, these symbols pay homage to the enduring connection between Aboriginal peoples and the coastlines they have inhabited for millennia.
Elements
River
At the heart of the artwork, five lines of vibrant colour intersect and intertwine, representing the rivers that flow through each distinct Aboriginal country. These lines, rendered in Telstra's brand colours, serve as powerful conduits of connection, linking the symbols of Freshwater, Saltwater, Desert, Rainforest, and Sky.
Just as rivers have historically served as vital lifelines for Indigenous communities, these lines symbolise the flow of culture, knowledge, and community spirit that binds together the diverse peoples of Australia. As they traverse the canvas, these rivers not only unite the individual elements of the artwork but also underscore the interconnectedness of Aboriginal cultures and the enduring legacy of shared experiences and traditions.
Stars
Behind the artwork, the starry background pays homage to the celestial constellations that have guided generations of Indigenous peoples across the Australian landscape. Against the backdrop of a vast, midnight-blue sky, these stars shimmer with the wisdom of ages, symbolising the enduring connections forged between communities through the shared navigation of the sky.
They also represent the modern satellites that orbit like beacons of communication, bridging the gap between past and present and illuminating the limitless possibilities of connection in an ever-evolving world. Just as the stars have served as guiding lights for millennia, so too do these symbols of modern technology echo the promise of unity and progress.
