TSANZ Indigenous Artworks
The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand commits to and aspires to embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Māori voices, knowledge, and priorities into all areas of the society. Cultural safety, respect for self-determination, and partnership with Indigenous communities will guide governance, research, education, and advocacy activities.
‘Strong lungs, brighter futures’
Artwork by David Williams, Wakka Wakka artist
Gilimbaa
As your lungs expand, you feel their strength. And as knowledge and connections expand and grow, people and communities are strengthened, too.
This artwork represents the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand on its journey to build and maintain respectful collaborations with Indigenous people and communities. This aim is represented at the heart of the artwork, with the goal of ensuring future generations are in a better state of health and wellbeing. As a trusted source of information, the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand must be held accountable, recognise Indigenous scientific knowledge, and operate with integrity to improve knowledge and services until the health gap is closed.
By continually learning and improving through authentic and respectful collaboration, it can play an important part in making a brighter future for all Australians.
‘Tihei Mauriora’
Artwork by Te Aotahi Paihana Rangipunga Rice-Edwards, Iwi/Hapū: Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Mako, Te Āti Haunui-ā-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Hāua, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngā Rauru
Ariki Creative
This artwork concept is inspired by the lungs and the movement and flow of breath through them. The inner depiction of loose puhoro designs, expressed through the use of the haehae pattern at the centre of the artwork, connects this concept to our narratives around Hine-ahu-one — the first person according to Māori, who was conceived from the breath of Tāne Mahuta. He formed her shape from clay and filled her lungs with a hongi — a shared breath — bringing her to life.
Meanwhile, the solid kōwhaiwhai adorning both the centre and outer areas of the design symbolises the strength and vitality that one’s own breath reverberates into one’s everyday life and into those around them.