Situated on Ngunnawal Country in the expanding suburb of Taylor, the school celebrates its connection to the land through close collaboration between CK Architecture and five talented First Nations artists, whose work is thoughtfully interwoven into the design of the school.

Aunty Agnes Shea High School in Gungahlin is a landmark project that integrates First Nations art and culture into its design.

Artists and architects behind Aunty Agnes Shea High School.jpg

Image: The artists and architects behind Aunty Agnes Shea High School / supplied

"This project embodies our commitment to meaningful collaboration with First Nations communities," says Cassandra Keller, Co-Owner of CK Architecture.

"We believe every project should honour and respect the rich history and culture of the land it occupies. At Aunty Agnes Shea High School, First Nations art is not merely showcased, it is deeply embedded into the essence of the building through a co-design process and close collaboration with the artists from start to finish".

In collaboration with Richie Allan, a Ngunnawal Kamilaroi Custodian and Cultural Director at the Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (TOAC), CK Architecture's design approach was guided by the principles of the Ngunnawal six-season calendar.

Image: Bek Weddell / supplied

The artists, all with connections to Ngunnawal Country, were commissioned to create unique artworks that reflect the essence of these seasons.

CK Architecture collaborated with these First Nations artists to co-design interpretive applications of their art within the school. This project was undertaken with the support of Hindmarsh Construction and the ACT Government.

"Our relationship with CK Architecture is a collaboration. They're the experts in architecture, and Mother Earth is the expert of architecture outside. Together, we bring the western world into the Cultural world and immerse them together. It's my job to make sure CK has an understanding of how to bring the outside world inside," says Allan.

Image: Jazz and Kristal Matthews / supplied

The spaces bring the stories of the seasons to life, drawing inspiration from the flora, fauna, and cultural narratives of each season.

Carefully selected imagery, materials, textures, and finishes are woven together to create a school that respects and honours the spirit, connection, and significance of the site, guided by the wisdom and traditions of First Nations peoples.

"The fundamental goal of schools is to educate and engage students," says Keller.

"By embedding First Nations culture as an integral part of our architectural and design approach, we're creating a platform to share their stories for generations to come."

Image: Jazz and Kristal Matthews Summer / supplied

Clémence Carayol

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