Right now two pieces of playable art are being auctioned in support of Melbourne-based ‘Children’s Ground’, a not-for-profit set up to empower First Nations youth.
The idea came about through 2010 ARIA-winner, Dan Sultan, who approached Fender. And Fender really came to the party – twice – by donating an American Professional II Stratocaster and an American Acoustasonic Stratocaster.
Artists Otis Hope Carey and Niah Mcleod then set about painting them with a distinctive Aboriginal design.
GAAGAL (Ocean) – Fender® American Professional II Stratocaster®, by Otis Carey. This exciting artwork pays homage to the lands and ocean around Coffs Harbour, Otis’ home, and is named after a totem of his people, the Gumbaynggirr Mob.
NGUDJUNG YUGARANG (Mothers Heartbeat) – Fender® American Acoustasonic® Stratocaster® by Niah McLeod. This moving piece continues Niah’s artistic journey of connecting to heritage through art and speaks to the lineage of her people.
Children’s Ground believes every First Nations child born today should experience a lifetime of opportunity, entering adulthood strong in their identity and culture, connected to their local and global world, and economically independent. Children’s Ground’s approach to change is built around empowerment, and it is this philosophy that speaks to Eastern Arrernte & Gurindji man Dan Sultan.
The auction is open for bids now (ends 25 July 2021) and global interest is welcome.
