The Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism is the Queensland Government department that aims to build long-terms prosperity, growth and vibrancy for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and peoples from diverse cultural backgrounds.
In mid-2026, the Queensland Government was seeking to work with a First Nations designer to create a cultural design to be used across a number of government initiatives, programs, and opportunities that are targeted towards or primarily in service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.
The resulting artwork, ‘Connected Through Culture’, was created by Gilimbaa’s David Williams working with Lisa Sorbie Martin.
Artwork Story:
This artwork tells the shared story of Queensland’s many peoples, communities and cultures; connected through place, stories, responsibility and future aspirations.
At the heart of the artwork are gathering spaces for communities across urban, regional, rural and remote Queensland. They are places of connection and belonging, where people can feel valued and heard. Community voices help shape stronger futures; allowing all Queenslanders to feel culturally safe and empowered.
Flowing pathways show the many journeys taking place across Queensland every day. Some move closely together, some move independently; acknowledging the diversity of histories and experiences and the importance of walking forward together with respect and understanding.
The four key narrative pillars – safety, health, economic wellbeing and future planning – are woven into the design, as we recognise that their true value comes from every Queenslander having a voice.
The diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures is celebrated, with the inclusion of a rich Torres Strait Islander perspective, where freshwater and saltwater communities are embraced and welcomed as part of the whole. Distinctive zig zag and cross-hatch-inspired markings reference the artistic traditions of Torres Strait ancestors, including hand-carved designs found on canoes and shields, and weaving patterns created using coconut leaves. The movement within the design also reflects healing and progression when complex histories are confronted.
When all of its elements come together, we see a Queensland where culture is celebrated, communities are connected, and all Queenslanders can walk forward together.
For more information about the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism, visit its website.
