About Pathways to Knowledge
Pathways to Knowledge
Denise Proud (2010)
The painting depicts the many pathways Indigenous Australian students negotiate in undertaking postgraduate study and the importance of linking with their communities. The circle at the centre of the painting represents the University and the colours within the circle depict the many forms knowledge which are taught and learnt within the University context. The green circles represent the work place that students often transition to after study. The red circles represent the community and the connections Indigenous Australian postgraduate students continue to hold while undertaking postgraduate study and work. The white lines around the circles are the pathways between the University, the work place and the community which Indigenous Australian postgraduate students move between. Some students may complete their studies at the University and then go onto work but later return to undertake postgraduate study. Others follow a path that leads them straight from undergraduate to postgraduate study. The painting illustrates the ways Indigenous Australian postgraduate students negotiate their multiple commitments and community obligations while undertaking postgraduate study.
About the artist
Denise Proud was born in Cherbourg, an Aboriginal settlement in Queensland, and in Wakka-Wakka country. She was an early childhood educator for many years and is a popular international speaker in this field. Denise has also worked in correctional centres, youth detention centres, and women’s centres and has been closely involved with The University of Queensland facilitating cultural awareness workshops and guest lecturing on a diverse range of topics. Her parents along with many brothers and sisters were major influences in her life and more than a few of the “Chambers” family are well known artists. Denise has lived for many years at The Gap in Brisbane with her husband David and daughter Monique, where she has set up a studio and likes to paint into the small hours of the morning. She continually supports her family, her community and her country.
