Acknowledgement of Country
The National Art School (NAS) sits on Gadigal land – Always Was, Always Will Be. NAS recognises the Traditional Owners and Custodians of knowledge of the Lands on which we work, learn and make art. NAS’ core tenets include art, creativity, education and place. With respect and understanding from NAS, we acknowledge First Peoples sovereignty has never been ceded. Learning directly from First Peoples perspectives and coming together in this important place of knowledge and ancestral significance. We remain committed to acknowledging the truth of our shared history and the impact this continues to have on our reconciliation journey.
Our Vision for Reconciliation
At a broad level, our vision for reconciliation is an Australia that embraces unity between Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples (referred to as First Peoples throughout this RAP) and other non-Indigenous Australians and a national culture that represents equality and equity, and historical acceptance of our shared histories.
Importantly, our vision for reconciliation begins with and is informed by the site upon which NAS operates, being the former Darlinghurst Gaol, located on Gadigal Land. We recognise the importance of ‘place’ and the experiences of First Peoples at the NAS site, from prior to colonisation to current day. We are aware of the important role that historical acceptance plays in our reconciliation journey. We are committed to and acknowledge the responsibility of raising awareness of the history of this site through our academic curriculum, engagement with staff, students and community through our public programs.
In the context of the core business of our organisation and the primary work that we do, our vision for reconciliation extends to supporting artists to continue their fine arts tertiary education. This includes learning under the guidance of First Peoples in an inclusive and culturally safe and diverse learning environment. In this regard, our culturally responsive practice and pedagogy is informed by our First Peoples Strategy. Where relevant, we will also seek guidance from the key findings set out in the Australian Institute for Teaching and Learning School Leadership Limited (AITSL) ‘Building a cultural responsive Australian teaching workforce’ document.
Together we will nurture respectful relationships that will see First Peoples and non-Indigenous people shape a shared understanding and respect.
