Koorden in Kings Square

Jul 1

A collaborative artwork developed through cultural leadership

Project info

Client: Leighton Properties
Location: Perth, WA
Traditional owners: Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation
Value: $0.4 Million
Date: 2016
Collaborators: Rod Garlett (artist), Richie Kuhaupt (artist)
Image credit: TRCB

Koorden is an art piece that communicates the cultural and ecological significance of Perth’s city centre. Part of a suite of urban art projects commissioned as part of the Kings Square Public Art Strategy, this is located in what is now known as Telethon Gardens in the heart of Perth’s Kings Square precinct.

The concept development process for Koorden was led by Whadjuk Ballardong Noongar artist Rod Garlett, in collaboration with sculptor Richie Kuhaupt and TRCB Director Fred Chaney. Together, the team developed what became Koorden – a series of sculptural figures that commemorate and celebrate the Noongar leaders who gathered in Perth in 1900 to represent Aboriginal communities at Federation. The work also speaks to the site’s ecological past – acknowledging the layered social, environmental and cultural significance of the wetlands that once dominated this part of the Swan Coastal Plain.

The team undertook the development of the sculptural concept under leadership from Aboriginal cultural advisors Carol Innes and Barry McGuire, as well as six highly respected Aboriginal elders from the Perth community. Their guidance was critical to the success of the project.

The cultural consultation process undertaken for this project underpins the stature and significance of Koorden as an important symbol and recognition of Aboriginal custodianship.