Student voices shine through at St Mary’s Rushworth Mural unveiling
The school community at St Mary’s Rushworth has proudly celebrated the unveiling of a remarkable new canvas and mural, the culmination of a collaborative and meaningful artistic journey. The milestone was celebrated with a community picnic and cultural craft activities led by renowned Indigenous artist Emma Stenhouse.
The project began when the school successfully applied for a grant through Together For Humanity, an inclusive not-for-profit educational organisation dedicated to combating prejudice and advancing belonging and inclusion within school communities.
Working alongside Ngarrindjeri artist, weaver, and educator Emma Stenhouse, students and staff embarked on a creative journey that embraced collaboration, culture and student voice. The result is a vibrant and inclusive mural that now proudly welcomes visitors at the school’s administration and entrance area. In addition, the canvas was replicated as a mural in the school grounds.
The artwork reflects the strong connection shared between St Mary’s and its faith-filled community, while celebrating themes of respect, inclusion, storytelling and the embedding of Indigenous culture within the school environment. Importantly, the mural captures the voices and experiences of the students who worked closely with Ms Stenhouse to help bring the meaningful piece to life.
Principal Ms Angela Fiske-Kealy described the unveiling as a proud moment for the entire community, acknowledging the significance of creating a lasting piece of art that honours both culture and connection.
“This mural represents far more than paint on a wall,” a school spokesperson said. “It symbolises the values we hold as a community — inclusion, respect and belonging — while providing students with a meaningful opportunity to share their stories and perspectives.”
The unveiling ceremony was attended by students, staff, families and members of the wider community, all gathering to celebrate the completion of a project that will continue to inspire and welcome visitors for years to come.
