A Worimi man from the Newcastle/Port Stephens region, John Maynard, brings his own knowledge and insight to his exploration of the drawings, and to the fascinating character of Lycett himself. John is currently a Director at the Wollotuka Institute of Aboriginal Studies at the University of Newcastle and Chair of Indigenous History. He has held several major positions, including as Deputy Chairperson of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and Deputy Chair Humanities, National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network.

 

'True Light and Shade' is filled with beautiful images by convict artist Joseph Lycett that powerfully capture in intimate detail Aboriginal life, a rare record of Aboriginal people within the vicinity of Newcastle and how they adapted to European settlement before cultural destruction impacted on these groups.

John Maynard writes an engaging short biography of Lycett and his life in Australia and follows this with a detailed commentary on each of the 20 images in the album. Each image is reproduced in full on a double page spread and then, on the spreads following, details have been enlarged to accompany John's text as he takes us through exactly what is happening in every picture: ceremony, hunting and fishing, carrying food (carving up whale meat), land management and burning, interactions with Europeans, family life, dances, funeral rituals, and punishment. When you return again to examine the full image, you see it in a completely different light. John also includes written records from the time that corroborate Lycett's views.

Some dreamtime stories connected with the areas Lycett depicted are also included, with accompanying Indigenous art. One story explains the earthquakes in the area (kangaroo jumping up and down).

The title quote 'true light and shade' comes from Lycett's words: 'I consider a complete drawing to be an accurate delineation of anything with its true light and shade.'

 

 

Mural Art Work

Council's Public Art Reference Group working with Council's Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee has provided many local cultural insights for works completed on Station St. Wickham local artist Jasmine Cracium. This can be seen in the attached PDF document prepared by Catalyst Project Consulting.

 

Ref: PDF file (attached).

JUSTIFICATION We have spent considerable time developing concepts and several reiterations of the designs. In undertaking this project we have learnt a great detail about the Aboriginal heritage in the Wickham locality and wider newcastle CBD. These works provide a great opportunity to showcase the significance of the location to the wider community via the highly visual corrobboree scene mural. Given the cultural significance of the pieces, we have been keen to collaborate with the Guraki Committee and not rush through the design development. The consultation with the committee via Guraki, the engagement of suitable artists and then very particular concept planning for the main mural and associated seating and sculptures has taken longer than anticipated as we were determined for a high quality and respectful result. COVID restrictions have exacerbated the situation making it difficult to import materials for the art works and stock availability within Australia has been limited for the proposed materials for these pieces. We are fully committed to delivering these works, however given the considerations and issues outlined above have had significant impact on finalising detailed design and the timeframe for completion of the final mural and associated structures. We are fully committed to delivering these works, as is evidenced by the level of detail provided to date. Should you require any clarification in relation to the above works being undertaken, please contact the Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee. Should you have any questions or comments, please contact Catalyst Project Consulting to discuss.

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