Kaurna and Narungga artist, educator and weaver Elaine Magias was commissioned to create Coolamon, a contemporary woven work reflecting her connection to culture, Country and family.

Through the use of natural raffia fibres and traditional weaving practices, Coolamon acknowledges the cultural and practical history of weaving and the knowledge carried through generations. The work brings Magias’ contemporary artistic practice into the Cetral Market Tower project, sharing cultural knowledge through material, form and making.

Managed by Guildhouse, the project creates an opportunity for Magias to share her practice within a contemporary public context while contributing to the visibility of First Nations art and cultural knowledge.

Artwork Story:

Coolamon draws on the cultural and practical history of Aboriginal weaving, connecting contemporary practice with traditional knowledge and skills passed down through generations. Created from natural raffia fibres, the work reflects the importance of weaving as both a practical tradition and a means of cultural continuity.

The coolamon is a vessel associated with carrying, gathering and holding. Through its woven form, the work acknowledges the role of objects and making practices in everyday cultural life. Its form and texture develop through the rhythm and repetition of hand weaving, bringing together material, pattern and cultural knowledge.

For Magias, working with natural fibres provides a direct connection to the environment of Kaurna Country. Her hands-on process begins with selecting and preparing materials before carefully building each piece through considered weaving.

Coolamon reflects Magias’ ongoing journey as a contemporary weaver and her commitment to keeping cultural practices alive and visible. The work honours traditions and teachings carried through generations while creating a contemporary object that can be shared with others.

Artist Biography:

Elaine Magias is a Kaurna and Narungga educator, artist and weaver with direct family links to the important apical ancestor Kudnartu, who lived from 1832 to 1855.

Her weaving journey began more than 10 years ago, reconnecting her with a cultural practice that has become an important part of her identity. Through weaving, Magias has developed a greater sense of belonging and a deeper connection to place, Country and culture.

Her practice reflects an ongoing journey of cultural continuity and learning. Working primarily with natural fibres, Magias creates contemporary woven works that honour cultural knowledge while developing her own creative voice as an artist.