Dennis Golding with Collide Public Art Initiative

Through the wind and water explores topographical patterning of the local landscapes and waters as a way of acknowledging First Nations people’s cultural connection to Country. The three panels present an illustration of curved lines depicting the Dee Why coastline, as well as the lagoon that was often a place where the black swans swam. As the panels connect from a certain view, the shape of a black swan is seen on the base of the sculptures to highlight the natural environments surrounding this site, as well as connecting to First Nations communities within the Northern Beaches region.

The artwork stands as an acknowledgement for the stories and memories embedded within the custodianship of the surrounding lands of the Cammeraygal, Guringai and Borogegal people, who care for their Country now and who have done so since time immemorial. As the wind carries all who gather and meet on this site that connects the water to land, this work reminds us that this land has always been occupied, and is cared for with awareness and respect.

James Voller of Collide Public Art Initiative, worked in collaboration with Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay artist, Dennis Golding to develop and realise this work at the St David Avenue Park. The site was identified in the Dee Why Town Centre Master Plan 2013 and Placemaking + Public Art Dee Why Town Centre 2015, as a location for a significant public artwork.