Art Pharmacy is honoured to collaborate with ISPT to commission a community-centred mural in Winmalee Village.
This project champions the local Indigenous flora and fauna of the Blue Mountains as an integral part of the culture and heritage of Traditional Owners, reflecting a harmonious bond that continues to inspire.
Winmalee, located within the Ngurra (Country) of the Dharug and Gundungurra peoples, holds historical importance as one of the first European settlements in the Blue Mountains. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Winmalee’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the traditions of the local First Nations peoples, as the region has served as the ancestral home to their communities for thousands of years. These communities have fostered a deep connection to the land and a harmonious relationship with the native flora and fauna which can still be found within the recorded existence of the mountains — including Winmalee.
Winmalee Village is the first enclosed shopping centre in the Blue Mountains region. Located on Whitecross Rd, at the heart of the town, it features modern interiors with a focus on energy efficiency. Winmalee Village is more than just a place to shop, but a vibrant hub where locals gather, thrive and foster connections.
The town was built adjacent to the Blue Gum Swamp Creek, with the Blue Gum Swamp Track located conveniently at the end of Whitecross Road. This forest is characterised by tall blue gum trees, understory ferns, and wild waratahs in September and October.
With this in mind, Mandy Schöne Salter (MAN.De) underscored the core values of the Winmalee community whilst creating a recognisable and unique village identity by highlighting connections with the natural beauty of the surrounding Blue Mountains landscape. Residing in the Blue Mountains for 17 years, MAN.De has dedicated the last three to observing the region’s native plants, enhancing her understanding of the unique ecosystem, and influencing her creative processes. Through her work, Mandy aims to capture the intricate beauty of these species while fostering an immense connection to the mountains’ distinct heritage.
Harmony in Nature is an homage to the vibrant tapestry of interconnected communities and the lush natural landscapes that define Winmalee.
Drawing inspiration from MAN.De’s consultation at Winmalee Primary School, the work is a reflection of the student’s daily observations of local wildlife. This was a crucial moment in the making of the mural that provided a meaningful foundation that ensured a truly authentic representation of Winmalee through the lens of its residents. The piece adorns the wall with vibrant renderings of the flora and fauna identified by the students; including the striking King Parrot, Waratah, Yellow Paper Daisy, Sun Orchid, Blueberry Ash, Rosemary Grevillea, and Wattle.
Ultimately, Harmony in Nature honors the balanced connection between its inhabitants and the stunning landscape that envelops them, highlighting the splendor of their collective life in the magical backdrop of the Blue Mountains.
