Bundaberg’s Seeds of Unity mandala, made up of thousands of hand-painted leopard pods, has come full circle after a visit from the project’s founder.
The reimagining of this project began locally in June at the Bundaberg Art Gallery with community members invited to paint their own leopard pod to add to the mandala.
The idea Seeds of Unity was born in Brisbane by the non-profit organization Womenspace, 24 years ago, in 1998.
Ludmila traveled to the Bundaberg region specifically to visit the facility.
She said it was fantastic to see the tremendous community effort that went into the local project.
Ludmilla said that the Seeds of Unity mandala at Womenspace was not as big as the Bundaberg installation and she praised the community for creating such a wonderful piece of art.
“For me it is a privilege to know that the history that began so many years ago is alive, it is not just history as it is lived here and now,” said Ludmila.
“It’s about spreading, I love the idea of spreading, and here the seeds of unity are spreading – bringing us all together.
Ludmilla said the Womenspace team were impressed when they learned the project had germinated, to expand to Bundaberg.
“It has an interesting story…it’s a symbol of belonging, differences, ideas and beliefs,” she said.
“It’s amazing to come to Bundaberg to see this, it’s wonderful and empowering.”
Spokesman for the Council’s arts, culture and events portfolio, Cr John Learmonth, said the Seeds of Unity art installation recognizes being part of a community and could have a positive effect on the mental health and emotional well-being.
“It’s about bringing people together to be part of something bigger, it’s about a moment of mindfulness,” said Cr Learmonth.
“Overall, the project was collective, involving broad participation, starting with community members who provided seeds of their own leopards to use.”
Cr Learmonth said Seeds of Unity connected people of all ages and abilities in a single project.
“With the help of their parents, babies contributed to the project at Flourish Family Fun Day and seniors, up to 90, from the Gracie Dixon Respite Center participated,” he said. .
“Activity kits, available on loan, have been distributed to various schools and support organizations and people living with disabilities who have worked on this wonderful project.
“In terms of accessibility, this is truly ‘The Great Community Art Installation’ and everyone is welcome and invited to contribute.”
