Friday 27th of May marked the start of National Reconciliation Week, a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

A.G. Coombs encourages our employees to take action; not just through National Reconciliation Week but every week of the year.

Through our Reconciliation Action Plan, which is embedded across our organisation, we continue to embrace our indigenous community and their cultures through our actions and community engagement

In recognition of National Reconciliation Week and in the lead up to our RAP, INNOVATE, A.G. Coombs has collaborated with Indigenous artist Michelle Kerrin and captured her artwork in our vehicle livery as a visual acknowledgment and connection to Australia’s indigenous culture and their community.

Michelle Kerrin

Michelle Kerrin is a proud Arrernte and Luritja woman from the Northern Territory. Her artwork not only speaks to her personal experiences but intertwines with her work and passion working with young mob in community. Alongside her role as an artist, Michelle currently works with the Michael Long Centre, a space for Aboriginal youth leadership.

Michelle beautifully portrays the role of storytelling through her art, in which she shares her ‘lil wun stories’ and own Culture throughout her pieces. Her honest expression, through the use of colours and symbols, has led her to collaborate with multiple organisations and businesses, including international brand Cadbury Roses, Health fund NIB, the Richmond Football Club, and Moe Moe Designs.

Michelle continues to be open and truthful with her art and shares her ongoing connections with her Culture and peoples – “I paint the symbols from our communities, the lines of my Country, and the colours of these lands. It brings a feeling of belonging and gives me a sense of purpose in my community and life for my people. When I paint, I get lost in the strokes, dots, and colours. My mind is at ease. I make sure I paint with my feelings and through that comes a story.”

The Artwork: More than One Story

This piece is about connection and growth. It speaks to the lands and communities coming together, where the people come to meet, trade and grow with one another. This connection is key to the success of its peoples, the ground you walk on and the spirits that have come before you. These pathways have always been here, they are rooted in the ground. It’ now time for the next mob to travel on them. They are sacred.

The story of A.G Coombs is reflected in this piece. It tells the stories of all the spirits and souls that live, breath and work in these spaces. Everyone far and wide, but all connected. It’s for the people, by the people. The pathways have always been there, but are always growing.

For more information or to find out what you can do to get involved, visit: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/national-reconciliation-week/

For more information on Reconciliation, visit: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/what-is-reconciliation/