Belonging

K Dallinger-Simpson with staff and students, Belonging, 2025

July - December 2025

Staff and students at the University of Sydney's Gadigal Centre: This artwork represents the many stories within our centre. Each artist was given their own section to express their story, which then leads towards the centre of the piece, representing the Gadigal Centre – a home away from home. Students and staff had the opportunity to share why certain colours were chosen and what the patterns represent within their individual stories. When combined, these elements illustrate the connection between staff, students, and the Gadigal Centre, and the strong sense of belonging we all feel. No matter where we come from – our backgrounds, our past, or our present – we all belong.

Material: Stretched canvas, wooden frame, acrylic paint, and all-purpose sealant.

Lead artist: Krystal Dallinger-Simpson is a proud Gamilaroi/Yuwaalaraay artist and weaver. She is a current student at the University of Sydney studying Archaeology and Indigenous Studies. Over the past eight years, Krystal has contributed to large-scale projects alongside Netball Australia and the GWS Giants, designing First Nations Round uniforms for Suncorp Super Netball. She also delivers art and weaving workshops across the state, working with students, communities, organisations, and staff to share and strengthen connections to culture and the traditions of First Nations peoples.

Student names: Krystal Dallinger-Simpson, Cianna Walker, Saraya Mauboy-Hudson, Yuri Farrawell, Jasmine Lattouf, Charlie Jackson, Angelique McCabe, Torika Blaire.

Staff names: Caz Dallinger-Simpson, Skye Gordon-Briggs, Michaela Gordon-Briggs, Britt Miles, and Isaiah AhSee.

Project concept developed and commissioned by: Sue-Ellen Simic, Senior Project Office, Indigenous Employment and Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion, Organisational Development, Human Resources, University of Sydney.

(Text from plaque adjacent to the work).