FROM THE ARTIST
Aleerah Baker
50 Years of Deadly
This artwork tells the story of 50 years of Deadly - strength, survival, and celebration, a powerful tribute to NAIDOC’s journey and the generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have carried culture forward with pride.
At the heart of the piece sits a large central meeting place, symbolising NAIDOC itself, a gathering place where people come together to honour identity, history, and community. The many layers within this circle represent the passing of time: each ring is a year, a voice, a victory, and a lesson. The bold reds and oranges reflect the fire of resistance and resilience, while the blues represent water, healing, and continuity, showing that culture has flowed strongly through every decade.
Surrounding the centre are 50 interconnected meeting places, representing both the communities across Australia and the 50 years of deadly - urban, rural, and remote - all connected by shared spirit. Each circle is different in size and design, symbolising that every mob has its own story, language, and traditions, yet all are united in the broader journey of NAIDOC.
