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‘It’s all free hand. It’s all from the heart.’ CVGT Employment unveils new First Nations artwork by Clinton Edwards
CVGT Employment is proud to announce the unveiling of a new First Nations artwork created by Clinton Edwards, a proud Dja Dja Wurrung, Mutti Mutti, and Wamba Wamba man. The artwork, now displayed in our Corporate Office in Long Gully, Bendigo, is a testament to CVGT Employment’s commitment to supporting First Nations communities and promoting reconciliation.
“The artwork was commissioned through an expression of interest to find a piece that embodies the essence of CVGT Employment,” Jason Russell, CVGT Employment Chief Executive Officer says.
“We invited First Nations artists to develop a design that told a story, represented all employees, and captured the spirit and passion of the CVGT Employment team.”
In May 2024, after an impressive array of design submissions, one exceptional entry from artist Clint Edwards distinguished itself from the rest.
“All the entries were truly remarkable, but Clint’s piece stood out with its vibrant colours and compelling story. It perfectly embodies the spirit we wanted to represent at CVGT Employment,” says Rhonda Penney, CVGT Employment First Nations Coordinator.
It’s all free hand. It’s all from the heart.
Clinton Edwards
Artist
Originally from Bendigo and now residing in Ballarat, Clint is a proud father of eight children, partner to Anieka, and the eldest of eleven siblings. His artwork captures the spirit of collaboration and community that CVGT Employment stands for.
“The orange represents the dirt, the blue represents the water, for all the states CVGT Employment are on,” Clint says of the artwork’s striking background.
“My commitment to creating this piece was to capture the opportunities for people’s near and far within the gathering circles. The feet represent both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples working together with CVGT. Creating pathways to careers and education for youth and connecting job seekers with employers.
“The centrepiece puts the outcome of CVGT’s services on full display, showcasing CVGT, community, employers, and employees working together.
You can see the inclusiveness of both Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals coming together, seeking that employment solution and support.
Clinton Edwards
Artist
Clinton’s artwork will feature prominently as the design for CVGT Employment’s First Nations uniform, signage, website, and digital platforms.
“As our First Nations Coordinator, I am incredibly proud that we now have an amazing piece of original First Nations artwork as part of our work uniform. This is a significant and meaningful addition for us,” says Rhonda.
“It is a symbol of CVGT Employment’s commitment to creating pathways to careers and education for youth and connecting job seekers with inclusive employers. It represents our dedication to supporting First Nations communities and aligns with our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) – Innovate.”
Having struggled finding work in the past, Clint has a heartfelt message for job seekers who see his artwork.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, non-Indigenous and Indigenous people, don’t be afraid to come to CVGT Employment. It’s okay to get out there and look for work.”
Artist’s Clinton Edwards Statement
It’s incredible that for 40 years, CVGT’s organisation has been dedicated to helping individuals find sustainable and meaningful work solutions, while also assisting employers in finding the right staff.
My commitment to creating this piece was to capture these opportunities for people’s near and far within the gathering circles. The feet represent both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples working together with CVGT. Creating pathways to careers and education for youth and connecting job seekers with employers. The centrepiece puts the outcome of CVGT’s services on full display, showcasing CVGT, community, employers, and employees working together on an inclusive meeting ground and displaying their dedication to making a difference.
About Artist Clinton Edwards
Clinton Edwards, a proud Dja Dja Wurrung, Mutti Mutti, and Wamba Wamba man, originally from Bendigo and now residing in Ballarat, is a proud father of eight children, partner to Anieka, and the eldest of eleven siblings. His artwork captures the spirit of collaboration and community that CVGT Employment stands for.
Connect to CVGT Employment
If you would like to learn more about how our team can support you to find work you, visit cvgt.com.au or call 132 848 to start your employment journey.