Shire celebrates installation of Aboriginal artwork in Pinjarra

Friday, 28 July 2023 12:12

By Monique Welhan

The Shire of Murray celebrated the installation of the Bindjareb Maar artwork at the Pinjarra Town Square last week.

The celebration included a smoking ceremony, and traditional dance by the Bindjareb Middars.

The Bindjareb Maar – Maar means five – are five interpretive poles containing imagery collected and created by the local community.

They were created through a collaborative process involving local people and tell stories of the community’s past, present and future.

Shire President Councillor David Bolt said is was satisfying to see this project come to fruition.

“Sharing histories and cultures through art engages and inspires. It also strengthens relationships and aids reconciliation so, for many reasons, it is a great pleasure to see the Bindjareb Maar in place,” Councillor Bolt said.

Early in the planning process an art competition was held with the Bindjareb Advisory Group and members of the community submitted artworks to be included.

These works have been combined and are displayed in the metal images above each art installation.

To further enhance visual appeal, low powered LED lights and automatic sensors have been installed inside each pole.

These will illuminate behind the artwork as dusk approaches.

The Town Square redevelopment was supported by Alcoa, Lotterywest and Peel Development Commission.