Footprints on Gadigal Nura Sculpture

Footprints on Gadigal Nura. This evocative artwork speaks volumes. It whispers tales of a people whose connection to this land stretches back 60,000 years. Here at the Sydney Metro Waterloo Station, Nicole Monks’ creation isn’t just art. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Gadigal people. Footprints on Gadigal Nura comprises three distinct installations. Each one tells a different part of the Gadigal story, weaving together past, present, and future. At street level, a mirrored wall greets you. This wall, created in collaboration with Gadigal Elders Uncle Charles Madden and Aunty Joanne Timbery, bears text that reflects the deep wisdom and history of their people. As you descend to the concourse, look for the collection of over 100 aluminum feet. These aren’t just any feet. They were cast from the feet of local children during a community workshop, creating a poignant representation of the generations who have walked this land. These feet form an unconventional map, tracing the paths and stories of the Gadigal people across this area. Finally, your gaze is drawn upwards to a towering 31-foot aluminum figure. This striking image depicts Roscoe, a young Aboriginal dancer holding a boomerang. This image, captured by Aboriginal photographer Wayne Quilliam, embodies the strength, resilience, and future of the Gadigal people. Footprints on Gadigal Nura isn’t simply an aesthetic addition to the station. It’s a powerful reminder of whose Country we stand on. It’s an invitation to learn, connect, and engage with the rich Aboriginal heritage of Waterloo. It’s a symbol of the enduring footprints on Gadigal Nura, connecting the past to the future.