Wrapped NBN nodes showcase Indigenous artists
October 9, 2019
As the NBN continues to be rolled out around Australia, it has provided an opportunity for Indigenous artworks to be displayed in the community.
NBN Co’s delivery partner Downer has collaborated with the Copyright Agency to source and license artworks by key Indigenous artists to wrap around the NBN network nodes in Sydney’s Inner West.
The aim is to help beautify the box-like nodes, which are about as wide as a bookcase and usually painted army green to help them blend into the surroundings.
Copyright Agency’s licence ensures the artwork is protected, the artist receives licensing fees and their work is viewed by the wider community. The artists are given approval on how the artwork is cropped to fit the nodes, thereby ensuring the integrity of the artwork. In addition, the artist receives clear attribution on each cabinet, in an example of best practice in copyright licensing.
This project has created an Indigenous Artist Street Walk (see map) in St Peters, Alexandria, Erskineville and Newtown, with 18 cabinets already completed, and a further five being finalised in Newtown over the next few weeks.
The wrapped cabinets also discourage vandalism and graffiti.
Lawrence Mitchell’s Wati Kutjara.