For the first time, the Melbourne Art Tram program is amplifying the diverse creative cultural practice of city and regional artists, with a suite of First Peoples-designed trams.

Melbourne is a city built on the lands of the Kulin Nation peoples; Traditional Owners who continue to maintain deep connections to their country, kin and waterways that have existed for tens of thousands of years. Along with Victorian Traditional Owners, the place now known as Melbourne is home to many First Peoples from across the country.

Ancient waterways continue to flow beneath the concrete foundations of a constantly transforming city. Old gums, scarred with the lines of canoes, stand tall alongside towering skyscrapers. Freshwater and saltwater meet in estuaries, brought together by the turning moon’s tides.

In 2021, we celebrate six First Peoples artists from the city to the regions. Each artist will be responsible for the transformation of a Melbourne tram, which will make its way through the city daily.

The six selected artworks speak to diverse themes – ranging from environmental ecologies and caring for Country to personal stories of journeying and family – and reflect on the history and cultural heritage of First Peoples in the landscape. As a collective of moving artworks, all six share with us the strength and beauty of creative cultural expression and the interwoven connections and continuous cultures of First Peoples in Victoria.

Melbourne Art Trams are presented with PTV and Creative Victoria and supported by Yarra Trams.

Participating artists: Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Thomas Marks (Wotjobaluk and Gunaikurnai), Aunty Rochelle Patten (Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa and WembaWemba), Jarra Karalinar Steel (Boonwurrung and WembaWemba), Ray Thomas (Brabrawooloong Gunnai), Aunty Zeta Thomson (Wurundjeri and Yorta Yorta).

Curated by Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta)
First Peoples Art Melbourne Art Trams 2021 In Partnership With Public Transport Victoria And Creative Victoria.