Matilda Bay receives a colourful makeover

“My family still wear the traditional headpieces that are shown in my artwork, and these dances, traditions, and knowledge are still being passed down to this day.”

Two electrical cabinets on Matilda Bay foreshore have been brought to life by local artist, Jarni McGuire. The proud Whadjuk, Ballardong and Yuat woman lives in Boorloo (Perth). Much of her inspiration was pulled from being born and raised on Noongar Boodja (country).

Cabinet showcasing our beautiful coastlines, river-ways and wetlands

The colourful and meaningful makeover forms part of our Splash of Colour program.

Jarni’s work draws on her language, stories from her mob, and Noongar protocol. This allows the community to interact with traditional stories in modern day landscapes. 

“In every culture water has always got great value – so take care of water, take care of country and tread lightly,” Jarni said. 

Understanding the Artwork 

Water plays a significant role in Jarni’s daily life, and knowledge passed down is important. 

One of the cabinet’s captures Whadjuk Boodja, prior to settlement, through the artistic use of shapes and colours. 

The area was home to many Noongar mob. The country was shared by tribal groups and cared for by all for ceremonies and meetings. Whadjuk people lived along coastlines, river-ways and wetlands to access fresh water and food. 

The second cabinet displaying headpieces and dances pays respect and acknowledges Traditional Owners’ and families. Boorloo was home to a thriving lake system and Noongar people knew how to care for the country. 

Cabinet depicting traditional headpieces and dance

Community 

Splash of Colour invites local school children to be involved. By meeting with the artist, important lessons around the value of water can be taught in a hands-on, fun environment. 

The year 4 students from Nedlands Primary School took part in our multi-sensory Waterwise Education Workshop. The lessons taught fully aligned to the Western Australian curriculum objectives. 

Water Corporation's Splash of Colour program has transformed more than 60 water and wastewater assets across the state into vibrant public artworks since 2017. 
#splashofcolourWA.