The WAZA Conference 2024 artwork was created in unique collaboration with Tubbah-gah Wiradjuri artist Nathan Peckham, a direct descendant of the Tubbah-gah clan within the Wiradjuri Nation of New South Wales, Australia.
In his art practice, Nathan leans upon the teachings of his Elders, interpreting the many complexities of Australia’s rich Indigenous Culture, specifically the depth of the Culture in the Dubbo region which is his ancestral homeland. The connection to Country is deeply rooted in the rich Cultural heritage of Australia’s First Peoples, and the WAZA 2024 artwork weaves together Taronga’s pillar conservation species; the Koala, Platypus and Regent Honeyeater species, and their individual and intricate journeys across Country.
Each animal’s story is embedded in the artwork with profound significance, serving as a map of Cultural knowledge, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of the lands, waters, animals and people. The artwork embodies this and Taronga’s unwavering commitment to deep listening, learning and understanding of Country and Culture for all First Nations peoples, while standing as a visual testament to Taronga’s vision of securing a shared future for wildlife and people.
A balanced illustration of Australian wildlife and First Nations people who have coexisted in harmony for over 60,000 years, the artwork was brought to life through the rich contribution of Nathan’s Cultural visual language.