By Arena Theatre Company 

Visual Arts | First Nations culture | Connection to place 

Please note: This program is available to schools located in Dja Dja Wurrung Country only. Dja Dja Wurrung Country extended from Boort to Creswick in central Victoria, and includes Wedderburn, Rochester, Bendigo, Woodend, Daylesford, St Arnaud and Donald. Check out this map on page 8, to see if your school is in Dja Dja Wurrung country. 

A First Nations-led artistic program that immerses primary school students in First Nations culture and perspectives, Country and Belonging focuses on exploring the meaning and importance of the Acknowledgement of Country. 

Children frequently hear Acknowledgements of Country at school, sports events, and public gatherings. This program explores their understanding of these acknowledgements, asking whether they feel a personal connection to the words they hear and say, and if they have any investment in them. 

 The program is designed for students in Grades 3 and 4, however lower and upper primary can also be accommodated. It begins with a First Nations artist leading a discussion about the students’ local environment, posing questions such as: 

• who do they share these places with? 
• what types of things do they see there? 
• what activities do they engage in at these places? 

Students then break into smaller groups to work with First Nations art form of leaf painting (led by a First Nations artist) and sculpture. These activities help students to become familiar with the ideas, history, and stories that underpin the Acknowledgement of Country. Students reflect on their own relationship to Country as they write a personal Acknowledgement of Country. This activity is framed by the First Nations Artist and involves each person’s personal reflection of their relationship to Country. It may be led by a non-First Nations person. 

By the end of the program, students will have written their own personal Acknowledgement of Country, created a range of artworks inspired by the theme, and developed a deeper awareness and respect for the Traditional Custodians of the land. 

The program concludes with an exhibition showcasing the students’ work, allowing the entire school community to participate and celebrate their achievements. 

Developed as a residency in 2023 by Arena Theatre company and Yorta Yorta artist Annie Brigdale.

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