A celebration of culture and collaboration

KORNMEHL CENTRE EMANUEL PRE-SCHOOL

Kornmehl Centre Emanuel Pre-school recently unveiled its long-awaited UNITY mural. Created by Indigenous artist Garry Purchase, it showcases the convergence of Jewish and Aboriginal cultures, promoting unity and understanding. Each of the three panels is deeply significant and the mural is now a permanent feature at the entry to Kornmehl Centre Emanuel Pre-school.

In the first panel, a traditional Indigenous symbol for a meeting place encircles a Magen David, symbolising the significance of the land on which the pre-school stands as a safe and spiritual gathering space.

The second panel features an established tree. The Torah is compared to a tree of life in Judaism and in Aboriginal cultural trees are regarded as sacred. In both cultures trees are a symbol of growth and learning.

The third panel displays handprints, symbolising knowledge and learning, resonating with both Aboriginal cave paintings and the chamsa in Jewish tradition.

The word Shalom connects us to our heritage and symbolises peace, harmony, completeness, health, prosperity and tranquillity, and welcomes people into the space.

Kornmehl Pre-school Director Terry

Aizen said: "The process of creating the UNITY mural has been incredibly enriching for our children, families and educators. This collaborative learning journey has sparked curiosity and interest among all involved, and we couldn't be prouder of the end result. Our entrance now exudes a sense of completeness, inviting everyone who passes through our gates to feel that they are welcome and embraced."

Garry Purchase, the artist behind UNITY, said: "The artwork represents a respectful union of our two cultures and the uniqueness found within the Kornmehl Pre-school community.”

Throughout the five-day painting process, Garry invited Kornmehl children to leave their handprints on the mural, signifying the importance of every individual at the pre-school. The handprints symbolise the start of the children's learning journey and emphasises their central role in bringing the pre-school to life.

The mural has been an enlightening educational experience for the children, offering them insights into the meaning behind Aboriginal symbols, storytelling and the significance of cultural expressions in both traditions.

Here is what some of the students had to say about the mural:

Alma: "The Magen David shares the magic of love. It means that magic spreads all around the school and to the people sitting around the Magen David. I think the dots are the magic, sharing their magic with the entire world."

Drew: "I see little dots and the Star of David. It means gathering. I’m going to start on the outside and work my way into the Star of David. That shows we’re Jewish."

Emanuel School Principal Andrew Watt said: “The UNITY mural embodies the heart of Kornmehl Pre-school's values, which include promoting inclusivity, sustainability and a deep connection to nature and the community. It serves as a powerful visual testament to the pre-school's commitment to embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives within everyday learning. Kornmehl Pre-school takes pride in nurturing an environment where diversity is celebrated and and everyone is valued for their unique contributions.”