A BRILLIANT First Nations design feature on the vestments of Brisbane’s new auxiliary bishop, Tim Norton, a missionary priest who sees the Church’s role in reaching out to minorities, including indigenous people.
For those who witnessed his episcopal ordination in the city’s St Stephen’s Cathedral on February 22 it was the first chance to see the unique, screen-printed design – the artwork of Queenslander Danielle Leedie Gray.
The 34-year-old artist, illustrator and designer, and a descendant of the Bidjara and Wakka Wakka people of south west and east Queensland told The Catholic Leader about her role designing Bishop Norton’s vestment.
What did you set out to depict in the design?
When the bishop wears the vestment, he is seen in the midst of the local Church, surrounded by its communities. The red and ochre colours speak of the earth. The blue colour and the flowing lines refer to the ocean, rivers and coastline. They acknowledge First Nations Australians and their connection to this place.
I wanted to reflect unity amongst the parishes and Bishop Norton’s role as a leader, whilst also incorporating Australia’s natural elements. The idea behind the vestments design, in particular the chasable, was that the parishes would surround Bishop Norton as he wore his chasable, flowing/moving with him as he moved.
What inspiration do you draw upon for your art? What do you like to express?
Nature and symbolism. I like to express elements of nature, but if I had to pick a one or two it would be water and people coming together and moving forward. Water because it is a natural element and essential to life but it also is calming, people coming together and moving forward because it represents unity and working together.
What materials do you use?
I am graphic artist/illustrator and designer so I use computer programs to create my work.
It’s contemporary indigenous art using symbolism that is traditional. It’s a totally different method of creating indigenous artwork.
How did you come to be chosen for the design of the vestment project?
I was recommended by my cousin – Shara Delaney who at the time was unable to complete the project herself. Ms Delaney designed the artwork for Brisbane Archdiocese’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
We studied together at ACU (Australian Catholic University) – we studied business. We formed a friendship and have always been in contact over the years and had both started doing our own art and had almost been on a journey together. And then we found out two years ago that we were related.
Tell me more about your work as an artist?
I create bold contemporary pieces that make people feel joy and connection. My artworks are a unique expression. Each work is guided by a deep sense of empathy towards my cultural heritage and family history, and invites unity and healing through the unique combination of culture and contemporary vision.
More personally, important symbols are the people gathering (concentric circles with three lines between them) because they reflect unity and moving forward. I want to invite my work into the homes and businesses of non-Indigenous people, and promote understanding of the symbols, stories and meaning in Aboriginal culture so together we can create a united future for all Australians.
I have an office stationery and supplies business called Gulbari, which means emu in Bidjara language. I’m in the process of doing a complete stationery range. Education is big for me, so my goal at the moment is to get my work on stationary and office supplies.
Tell me about your Catholic connections? I believe you attended Stuartholme College, Toowong?
I am an alumnae of Stuartholme. There were key people in my life that were practicing Catholics and I watched them go to Mass every week. I also had very good relationships with Sr Genevieve Bannon and Sr Rita Carroll who were a bit part of my life at Stuartholme and are still a big part of my life today. They are the most gracious, loving people that I have ever known and I am grateful I still have them both in my life.
