Honouring the journey of Romlie Mokak
An Aboriginal artwork story
About the artwork
By Lani Balzan
In the centre of the Oration, a vibrant artwork celebrates Romlie Mokak, the inaugural Indigenous Policy Evaluation Commissioner of the Productivity Commission. Rom, a proud Djugun man and member of the Yawuru people, is honoured through this intricate artwork that narrates his significant contributions and the unity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the broader Australian community.
The Central Gathering
At the core of the artwork, a powerful Gathering symbol unites the diverse elements. It signifies the coming together of government, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander people at the Oration. This central motif is a testament to collective strength and collaboration, where all voices are heard and respected.
Origins and Journey
On the left side of the artwork, Rom's origins in Western Australia are depicted. A circular element represents Rom himself, encapsulating his personal and professional journey. This circle contains a waved pattern, illustrating the path he has navigated throughout his distinguished career. From his early days as the first Aboriginal policy officer in the New South Wales government Ageing and Disability Department to his leadership roles as CEO of the Lowitja Institute and the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association, Rom's journey is one of resilience and dedication. Surrounding each edge is the connection to our waters that surround Australia, emphasising the encompassing nature of his influence and the widespread impact of his work.
Connections Across the Land
Handprints within circular elements are scattered throughout the artwork, symbolising people from various sectors across Australia. These handprints connect via journey pathways to the central Gathering symbol, representing the unity and shared purpose of diverse communities. The rivers, waterholes, plants, and animal tracks woven into the design further emphasise our deep connection to the land and its natural beauty.
Colours of Djugun and Yawuru Land
The colours in the artwork draw inspiration from the land of the Djugun and Yawuru people, reflecting the rich earth tones and vibrant hues of Western Australia. These colours bring the story to life, grounding it in the ancestral heritage and natural landscapes that have shaped Rom's life and work.
Through this artwork, Rom Mokak’s legacy is celebrated, and the ongoing efforts to address the issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are honoured. The piece is not just a tribute to Rom but a visual narrative of unity, respect, and the enduring connection to the land and each other.
About the artist
Lani Balzan is an Aboriginal artist and graphic designer specialising in designing Indigenous canvas art, graphic design, logo design, Reconciliation Action Plan design and document design.
Lani is a proud Aboriginal woman from the Wiradjuri people of the three-river tribe. Her family originates from Mudgee but she grew up all over Australia and lived in many different towns starting her business in the Illawarra NSW and recently relocating to Mid-North Queensland.
In 2016 Lani was announced as the 2016 NAIDOC Poster Competition winner with her artwork ‘Songlines’. This poster was used as the 2016 NAIDOC theme across the country.
Lani has been creating Aboriginal art since 2013 and has continued success across the country. One of her biggest goals and inspirations with creating Aboriginal art is to develop a better connection to her culture and to continue to work towards reconciliation; bringing people and communities together to learn about the amazing culture we have here in Australia.