The First Nations NBN Box Art Project merges First Peoples' stories, art and technology to celebrate the rich culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Geelong.
First Nations NBN Box Art
Ten local First Nations artists have been commissioned to take part in the project. Their artworks make up a trail that goes from Central Geelong to Marshall.
You can find out more about each First Nations artist their artwork and NBN box location by clicking on each artwork below:
Dja by Billy-Jay O’Toole
Dja' represents all elements of country and the importance of country to all of us today.
Connection by Bri Apma Hayes
'Connection' represents the connection Aboriginal people have to the Dreaming.
Connections Across The Continent by Chloe Wegener
Connections Across The Continent' portrays the strength and support Chloe received from her family and community connections throughout her life.
Ton-Ton (Brain) by Jenna Oldaker
The U-shapes in 'Ton-Ton (Brain)' represent people on Wadawurrung Country, as they move around the tracks weaving back and forth across the land sharing their stories, history and culture.
Country and Connection by Lowell ‘Salty One’ Hunter and Djamari Hunter
'Country and Connection' was created by Lowell Hunter and his son Djamari and highlights the transferring of knowledge and stories between generations.
The Hands of Support in Community by Michelle Searle
The hands in 'The Hands of Support in Community' represent the support we gain from our communities.
Markings by Nikki Stanley
'Markings' is based on the body art of the Male Cow Fish belonging to Port Phillip Bay.
The Setting Sun of the Serpent by Jurrawaa
The fire in 'The Setting Sun of the Serpent' represents the passion that burnt inside Jurrawaa to share Culture.
Sea of Life by Ricky Abrahams
'Sea of Life' is inspired by the landscape, Gellibrand River and memories of native animals and sea life.
Map of artwork locations
About the First Nations NBN Box Art Project
The First Nations NBN Box Art Project transforms National Broadband Network (NBN) utility boxes into vibrant pieces of art wrapped with local First Nations creatives" expressive designs.
The NBN boxes serve as essential infrastructure to enable phone and internet providers to connect to properties. However through the First Nations NBN Box Art Project they go beyond their practical function becoming public works of art that reflect the cultural identities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Geelong.
Each NBN box serves as a platform for cultural expression amplifying the visibility of First Peoples' culture in urban settings. By wrapping NBN boxes with vibrant artworks inspired by traditional motifs and contemporary expressions the NBN boxes invite passersby to pause and contemplate the narratives embedded within each artwork. These artworks celebrate First Peoples" talent culture and stories and serve as basis for conversations about First Nations culture fostering a great sense of appreciation for First Peoples" stories and art among our community.
The First Nations NBN Box Art Trail is a collaborative project between various stakeholders including the City of Greater Geelong nbn® Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative and local First Nations artists.
Jenna Oldaker in front of her artwork Ton-Ton (Brain)
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