Butchulla artworks transform two iconic Fraser Coast venues
Fraser Coast Regional Council is proud to unveil two original vinyl artworks by Butchulla artists that will transform the façades of two of the region’s most iconic cultural venues.
Arts and Culture spokesperson Cr Sara Faraj said artists Zartisha Davis and Shawn Wondunna-Foley were selected to create new vinyl artworks in collaboration with LeeLee Creative for the entrances of the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery and the Brolga Theatre in Maryborough.
"Zartisha Davis’s striking new design now features at the entrance of the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery and will be officially unveiled next Friday, May 30, as part of the gallery’s latest exhibition launch.
“This design celebrates the culturally significant shell middens that once lined the Fraser Coast shores—more than remnants of a diet, they represent gatherings where families came together to share food, stories, and connection.
“The Hervey Bay Regional Gallery is an iconic local landmark, and Council is thrilled to see its entrance transformed with such a striking new look.”
Cr Faraj said the second artwork, designed by Shawn Wondunna-Foley, is being installed at the Brolga Theatre in Maryborough this week and will officially be launched alongside the Brolga Theatre 25-year celebrations in July.
“Shawn’s design draws from his Butchulla (Badtjala) First Nations lineage, interweaving landscapes, history and cultural narratives of living on Butchulla Country.
“His artwork celebrates the deep connection between people and place, weaving together imagery of land, sea, and sky with stories of creation, community, and kinship to create a powerful and cohesive visual journey.
“Both Zartisha and Shawn’s designs are set to enhance the functions of the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery and the Brolga Theatre as places of creativity, storytelling and community connection.”
This project has been delivered in partnership with the Butchulla Native Title Aboriginal Corporation and is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Fraser Coast Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.