Wulugul Walk a highlight of expanded Vivid festival

After a two-year Covid hiatus, Vivid is back with 11 new locations including Barangaroo’s waterfront Wulugul Walk where the work of several First Nations students will be showcased.

After a two-year Covid hiatus, Vivid is back with 11 new locations including Barangaroo’s waterfront Wulugul Walk where the work of several First Nations students will be showcased.

One of the talented scholar-artists, Coda Ridley, presented her art and a painted football to Sydney Swans star Lance Franklin and model Samantha Harris.

“I have a paid University scholarship at the National Art School in Darlinghurst and had two from the GO Foundation when I was in high school,” Ridley said.

“It was so cool to do an artwork on a footy and for such a great cause, it’s (the money raised) going towards more scholarships for Indigenous kids.”

Sam Harris said she couldn’t have been more excited for the return of the festival.

Model Sam Harris, artist Coda Ridney and Sydney Swans player Buddy Franklin on Barangaroo’s waterfront Wulugul Walk, which will light up during Vivid. Picture: Richard Dobson

“There is something quite magical about Vivid, you become totally immersed in the creativity of the lights and its mesmerising power.” She said.

Franklin underlined the importance of showcasing Indigenous art not only at Vivid but also on his guernsey after the Sydney Swans released their 2022 Indigenous Jersey just days ago.

“These large-scale displays such as this exhibition and our Swans guernsey allow for the talent of these indigenous artists to be recognised and widens the opportunities and professional pathways for these artists,” he said.

Buddy also can’t wait to return to Vivid with his wife Jesinta and the kids.

“I look forward to bringing the kids along and spending a night with my family, particularly, the Wulugul Walk and seeing what has been created by these young indigenous artists.” Franklin said.

Crown Sydney CEO and Crown Resorts Group Head of Hospitality, Mr Simon McGrath said providing a vehicle for young First Nations artists was not only important due to Crown’s support of these programs, but also appropriate considering Barangaroo’s significance for New South Wales’ Aboriginal communities.

“The importance of connecting with and celebrating Aboriginal heritage is the driving force behind our 2022 Vivid Sydney installation,” McGrath said.

“We have been proud supporters of these incredible programs through our work with the Crown Resorts Foundation, so we are delighted that Crown Sydney can provide a platform for First Nations students to showcase their talent not only to Sydney but the world,” Mr McGrath said.