The air crackles with an ancient energy at the Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom. Do you feel it? This isn’t just a corner in Footscray. It’s a gateway to a deeper understanding of this land and its people. Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom, meaning “Welcome Bowl”, is a striking public artwork completed in 2013. It’s a collaborative creation by artists Maree Clarke, Vicki Couzens, and Jeph Neale. The artwork comprises ten large granite boulders. These boulders are strategically placed at the intersection of Paisley and Nicholson Streets. They are arranged to resemble a “tarnuk,” a traditional Aboriginal curved wooden tray.
Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom is more than just a visual spectacle. It’s a symbolic representation of traditional Aboriginal smoking (welcoming) ceremonies. The incorporation of water and rock adds another layer of meaning. The mist rising from the base of the stones evokes the image of smoke used in these ceremonies. Imagine the scent of burning leaves and foliage, welcoming visitors to the land. This artwork serves as a visual reminder of the community’s rich diversity and the area’s talented indigenous artists. It stands as a powerful symbol of welcome and reconciliation.
The Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom is also a testament to the enduring spirit of the Wurundjeri people. This is their traditional land. This artwork serves as a permanent reminder of their deep connection to this place. The project cost $170,000. The artists meticulously selected ten bluestones. They then shaped them to mimic the form of a coolamon. This traditional wooden dish was used to hold burning leaves in welcoming ceremonies. The artwork was chosen by a public art sub-committee. It’s an important first step in recognizing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in the area.
The Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom invites you to pause and reflect. To consider the history and culture of this land. As you stand here, surrounded by the bustling activity of Footscray, take a moment to appreciate the significance of this artwork. It’s a welcoming beacon, a symbol of reconciliation, and a testament to the enduring power of art. The Wominjeka Tarnuk-yooroom is a reminder of the deep connection between people, land, and culture.