Our Journey Continues - Cotton Polo

Our Journey Continues by Rhonda Sampson

This artwork celebrates the 2026 NAIDOC theme, 50 Years of Deadly — honouring five decades of resilience, culture, and community.

At its centre is a powerful motif symbolising the journey of walking together. It represents unity, cultural pride, and the collective spirit that has shaped NAIDOC Week across generations.

Surrounding this are motifs honouring the many organisers and NAIDOC Committee members whose dedication has kept the movement strong. Their work reflects the passing on of knowledge, the sustaining of culture, and the building of legacy.

Five large motifs mark each decade of NAIDOC Week — a platform for celebrating those who came before us and sharing their wisdom with the next generation. U-shapes throughout the artwork depict people sitting together, learning, and leading.

Smaller motifs represent each state and territory, linked by pathways that symbolise community connection across the nation. Stars scattered throughout celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples — acknowledging growth, resilience, and strength.

Seeds woven into the design represent the planting and sharing of knowledge. They speak to how NAIDOC continues to meet the moment, keeping culture visible, vibrant, and alive.

This piece is a tribute to our journey, our voices, and our future — a celebration of where we’ve been, where we are now, and the generations to come.