CROSS CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
As a Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi man Jonathan Jones often explores the relationship between culture and history from Indigenous perspectives. In this work a giant tree lies across the floor. Jones is reflecting on the fact that in many artworks painted in the early colonial days, trees were in the foreground and seen as beautiful and romantic. He is allowing us to see the tree in a different way, from an Aboriginal perspective.
Another example of seeing something in a different way are these two maps. (Show the Aboriginal Australia Map and a typical Australian map you would found online or in books.) How are they different? Look at the artwork Sydney From the North Shore, 1888 by C.H. Hunt. How is this tree represented differently to the one in Jones’ work? Create a Venn Diagram showing the differences and similarities.
Jones often tells stories of Australia’s history through his work. How has Jones told a story about the history of colonisation in this country in his work untitled (illuminated tree), 2012?
Read the story Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy. In this book Aunty Joy talks about the importance of place and country to the Wurundjeri People of Victoria.
Jones often includes place as a concept in his installations. Think of a place that is important to you. Map out this place. Does it include water, pathways, buildings, people?
Investigate the Murray Darling River system and its rich history. What can you find out about how the river was used before colonisation and then after?
Can you find any other artists that use light in their artworks? How do they use light in comparison to Jonathan Jones? What are the differences or similarities?