Papunya School Book of Country and History

Description

This work tells the story of how Anangu from five different language groups came to live together at Papunya. From the time of first contact with explorers, missionaries and pastoralists, through to the Papunya art movement and the Warumpi Band, the multi-layered text finally leads us to the development of the unique educational environment that is Papunya School. As an example of two-way learning, it is a profound metaphor for reconciliation. The book is a collaboration involving the staff and students of Papunya School, working together with children's writer Nadia Wheatley and artist Ken Searle. Combining many voices and many hands, it was originally produced as a resource to be used for the Papunya School Curriculum.

This book is a unique collaboration involving the staff and students of Papunya School, working together with children's writer Nadia Wheatley and artist Ken Searle. Combining many voices and many hands, it was originally produced as a resource to be used for the Papunya School Curriculum. 'We want to see the children, after being educated at Papunya School, coming out like honey ants full of honey - nice and healthy honey - not poison inside. We want to see the children learning both ways, and coming out bright orange and yellow together, like honey ants.' (Linda Kapunani Allen) Nadia Wheatley is one of Australia's most highly respected writers for children and teenagers. Ken Searle is an artist and illustrator.

'An extraordinary publication ... a restoration, a rebuilding, a rediscovery of vision.' Magpies'The interface between traditional paintings and Western-style illustration is an integral part of the book's method and meaning. Similarly, the text combines language simple enough for primary school children with concepts too complex for many Australian politicians.' The Weekend Australian'A rare artistic achievement.'Panorama'No course in Australian history, at whatever level, will ever by complete now without Papunya School Book of Country and History.' Australian Book Review