A new public artwork titled ‘Hearthstone’ can be seen at the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, near the Signal Point Gallery. The artwork celebrates family and connectedness and connecting the past to the present.

There are three main elements to the sculpture which are, etched granite stones, reed like structures made of steel and bronze and granite boulders. The stones are engraved with drawings and stories of place from the first people of Goolwa, created by Ngarrindjeri artist Cedric Varcoe.

Emerging artists Amber Cronin and Anika Gardner also contributed to the artwork which includes etchings of local elements and natural features including Kuti shells (cockles), Nori (pelican) and The Seven Sisters.

The sculpture is near the Signal Point Gallery and sits next to a pathway which leads into the gallery. Inside the gallery, a permanent storytelling exhibition is housed, called ‘Yuntulun Ku:li-war’ which translates to ‘Coming together on the headland’ in the Ngarrindjeri language.

The exhibition has a mix of written stories, interactive displays and videos which provide a range of experiences showcasing the Ngarrindjeri culture, and European history, in relation to Goolwa the wharf and Murray River.

As Goolwa is at the end of the Murray Darling River System, there is also information about the health of the river system and ecologies.

Signal Point Gallery is open from Wednesdays to Sundays 10am to 4pm. Make sure next time you’re in the neighbourhood, to stop by and take a look at the new sculptures and the permanent Ngarrindjeri exhibition.

Cheers

Glenys