Enhancing study spaces with inspiring Indigenous artwork

Swinburne’s School of Business, Law and Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with the Moondani Toombadool Centre, is enhancing campus study spaces with original Indigenous artwork created by artist and designer Mandi Barton.

Mandi is a Yorta Yorta, Barappa Barappa, Wemba Wemba woman that grew up and currently resides on Boon Wurrung/ Bunurong country and is a valued member of the Koori community. Mandi has a vast portfolio as an artist and designer under Mandi Barton Design, combining her expertise in both art and wellbeing to create culturally safe spaces and opportunities for connection.  

Mandi created two pieces of artwork to be displayed in the Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship (AGSE) building at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus. These pieces reflect resilience, strength, and the journey of growth, knowledge and connection.

“Cultural art in educational spaces goes beyond just aesthetics – it helps foster understanding, learning and respect for First Nations histories and ongoing contributors. These artworks encourage students and staff to reflect on their own journeys and appreciate how connection, knowledge-sharing and cultural heritage play a big role in shaping meaningful learning experiences,” said Mandi Barton.

Mandi’s first artwork, titled “Emu Dreaming: Keeper of the Journey” spans the wall of the level one reading room of the AGSE building.

With earthy tones and flowing lines, Mandi depicts the emu, a powerful symbol of resilience, strength and forward motion. In this work, the emu stands as a guide and protector of the students as they navigate their paths in life. This artwork serves as a reminder of the wisdom found in connection to Country, the importance of heritage and the strength ones gains from being grounded in culture.

The artwork extends to the bollard pillars on level one, further demonstrating the emu as a keeper of knowledge, inspiring the viewer to move forward with purpose and courage.

Mandi’s second artwork is displayed on the second level of the building, titled “Emu Spirit: Tracks Through Time”. This piece depicts the journey of growth, using the visual of trees to symbolise how students will grow upward and outward, reaching new heights as they extend their knowledge. The bridges used within the design represent transitions between cultures, knowledge systems and stages of life.