Field of Dreams

In 1997, a group of Australians called Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR), organised a protest against proposed changes to the Native Title Act 1993, showing their support for land rights for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Artists and other members of the public, including both First Nations and non-First Nations Australians, painted, carved and decorated around 300 pieces of plywood. Many were collaborative works, created by more than one artist.  

The artworks were displayed en masse, first in front of a Sydney gallery and then later in front of Parliament House in Canberra in 1997, as part of an installation called Field of Dreams: Message Sticks for Native Title.  

There, they were surrounded by a ‘Sea of Hands’ – cut out hands symbolising widespread support for Indigenous rights. Some people have described it as ‘the biggest art petition the nation had ever seen,’ as it covered the Parliament House lawns with visual expressions of public opinion.

The organisers were inspired by the way First Nations people had previously used art to assert native title. One of the organisers, Jo Holder, said they knew that art could ‘make a point quickly, sharply and memorably.’

Some of these artworks are currently on display in the Museum’s Landmarks gallery. 

Student activities

Reflect

This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week is ‘All In’. How does the story of the artworks that were part of Field of Dreams: Message Sticks for Native Title relate to this theme?  

Create

Think about the way art can convey a message and act as a tool for change. How could you use your art to share a message about reconciliation with the world?

Research

How have First Nations people used art to assert native title? What can you find out about the Näku Dhäruk – Yirrkala bark petitions and the Ngurrara canvas?

Learn more about the history of First Nations land rights in Australia by reading about the Mabo case and Wik decision. What changes were made to the Native Title Act in 1998?

All In

Reconciliation Australia offers a calendar of National Reconciliation Week events, that communities from around Australia can contribute to. Find out what’s happening in your community and get involved! https://www.reconciliation.org.au/calendar