All One Country - Ajarku Muruu

By Chern’ee Sutton                
Age – 24 years          
Size – 91cm wide X 46cm high
Medium – Acrylic and textured acrylic on canvas   

All One Country - Ajarku Muruu

My name is Chern’ee Sutton and I am a contemporary Indigenous artist from the Kalkadoon people, this painting is called Ajarku Muruu which means All One Country and it represents reconciliation and the future we can build together as Australians.

In my painting the kangaroo in centre of the piece represents always moving forwards together as one, with the handprints representing our connection to Country. They acknowledge the deep relationship Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have had with this land for more than 65,000 years and the responsibility of caring for it, now and into the future.

The community symbols and travelling lines represents each of our individual journeys. Every person has their own path, their own experiences and their own perspectives each as unique and diverse as our beautiful Country and together they become part of a much bigger story.

The boomerangs and spears honour the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They are symbols of identity, knowledge and traditions that have been passed from one generation to the next and continue to be an important part of Australia today, with the green and gold colours throughout the painting representing Australia and the land we all call home.

This artwork is a reminder that reconciliation belongs to all Australians, by listening, learning and walking forwards together with respect, we can build stronger relationships and leave a better future for the generations that follow.