We are away at the ECA Conference. All orders will be shipped Mon Oct 5.

Aboriginal Art: Symbols Workshop

A hands-on exploration of visual storytelling, symbolism, and connection to Country.

Workshop Overview

This workshop introduces participants to the role of symbols in Aboriginal art as a powerful form of visual storytelling. Across many Aboriginal Nations, symbols are used to represent people, journeys, waterholes, animals, and connection to Country — forming layered stories that hold meaning and knowledge.

Participants explore common symbol forms, discuss how meaning is conveyed through pattern and placement, and engage in guided art-making activities. The session supports learners to understand that Aboriginal art is not simply decorative, it carries story, culture, and connection.

Through hands-on creative practice, participants begin to appreciate how art can communicate identity, environment, and belonging.

Suitable for:

  • Early Years
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Community Groups
  • Professional Learning

Learning Outcomes

Develop understanding of Aboriginal art as visual storytelling

Recognise common Aboriginal symbols and their meanings

Explore how symbols represent connection to people and Country

Engage in creative expression using culturally respectful approaches

Build cultural awareness and critical thinking about representation

Curriculum & framework alignment

  • Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity

  • Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world

  • Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
  • Humanities and Social Sciences

  • English (interpretation and meaning-making)

  • The Arts

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (Cross-curriculum Priority)

  • Standard 1: Know students and how they learn

  • Standard 2: Know the content and how to teach it

  • Standard 6: Engage in professional learning

Frequently asked Questions

Early Years (30mins) – $500 up to 40 participants

Single Session (1 hr) – $800 – up to 150 participants

Half-day (up to 3 workshops) – $3400 – up to 200 participants

Full-day (up to 5 programs) – $6600 – up to 300 participants

Consider the space you would like to hold the workshop in. 

Indoor classroom, hall, or covered outdoor space suitable for art-making.

Tables required for drawing or painting activities.

Art materials supplied unless otherwise discussed.

All workshops are delivered by Aboriginal facilitators and grounded in cultural integrity, respect, and lived knowledge. This workshop is delivered by Aboriginal facilitators and grounded in cultural integrity and respect.

We guide participants to understand symbolism in culturally appropriate ways and do not encourage copying sacred or restricted designs. The focus is on learning, listening, and respectful creative exploration.

Travel fees may apply depending on location.

All workshops outside the Northern Rivers NSW – South East QLD area may incurr travel fees. 

These will be on your invoice if applied. 

Workshop Booking

Check Availability & Book

Fill out the form to request for Workshop Booking

  • Select your workshop

  • Choose date

  • Complete booking details

Payment & confirmation

Bookings are confirmed & secured by invoice.

Half-Day and Full Day Bookings

For half-day or full-day workshops, please use the Request Booking button below.

These sessions are customised to your setting and may include travel considerations.

We acknowledge and pay our respects to the people of the Bundjalung Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the beautiful land and waterways on which we live and work.

Always was. Always will be Aboriginal land.