Goannas, reclaimed wood from Cyclone Marcus, clapsticks andthe didgeridoo will all feature in the Arafura Games medal ceremonies, givingthe events a distinct Territory flavour.
Larrakia artist Dotty Fejo designed the gold, silver andbronze medals, which feature a striking goanna design. Dottys art is unique inthe way she uses lines to create a 3D effect, and her medal design is noexception with curved lines creating the sense of goannas swimming infreshwater. These are not just medals they are works of art.
Darwin artist and sculptor Joel Mitchell designed thepodiums and medal trays, crafting each unique piece from reclaimed timbersalvaged from trees felled by Cyclone Marcus last year.
Joel is passionate about conservation and revealing thebeauty of discarded timber, and he used three different types of wood for thedifferent medals – Raintree will represent first place, Ghost Gum second andAfrican Mahogany third. Embracing the inclusivity of the Games, the podiumswill be designed in such a way they will be easily accessible for athletes witha disability.
Larrakia artist Tony Duwun Lee is creating the fanfaremusic in collaboration with musician Michael Tan. A combination ofclapsticks and the didgeridoo with a melodic, orchestral theme, the fanfarewill be played at each medal ceremony.
As stated by Minister for the Arafura Games, NatashaFyles:
The Territory Labor Government is bringing back the ArafuraGames to create opportunities for Territorians in a range of ways, fromathletes and volunteers to Territory creatives and businesses.
The medal ceremonies will be filled with the work oftalented Territorians who have seized these opportunities and will see their creationsexposed to an international audience.
Just as the Arafura Games is aunique event in a unique place, so too are the new medals, podiums and fanfaremusic.
Quote from Larrakia artist Dotty Fejo:
Wehunt goanna, they are strong and agile and powerful, like an athlete. They putup a good fight.
Quote from sculptor Joel Mitchell:
I love incorporating reclaimed and recycled timber into mysculptures and revealing its inner beauty. Sculpting reclaimed timber forthe winners podiums will add to the celebrations of the Games and the uniquejourney of all the athletes.
Quote from Larrakia artist Tony Duwun Lee:
I am honoured and grateful to bea part of the 2019 Arafura Games opening ceremony on Larrakia countrywith family. Last year I was a part of the Commonwealth Games Opening ceremonyon the Gold Coast, playing with the North Winds Didgeridoo Orchestra. This year its a privilege to be able to do this on my land.
