Photography

CREATIVE DIRECTION
VIDEOGRAPHY
MOTION GRAPHICS

The Spirit of Churaki is an epic music production inspired by the story of Churaki; an Aboriginal man heralded as the Gold Coast’s first surf lifesaver.

Churaki, a Goodjingburra man, performed the first documented act of lifesaving on the Gold Coast in 1911. This was one of many daring rescues he carried out in the early 1900’s as the surf bathing craze took hold. A heroic story, largely unknown, The Spirit of Churaki honours a rich lineage of saltwater people, a spirit of generosity, a deep connection to country and cultural obligation.

Bleach* Festival, Commonwealth Games, Festival 2018

Art-Work was engaged to capture campaign imagery to promote the show, develop a 70-minute set of on-stage visuals in collaboration with Vernon Ah Kee and create a 10 minute documentary following the show’s debut. 

Compelling and culturally appropriate visual materials were created, with the documentary aired on the ABC.

We attribute the success of this project to the authentic collaboration between Art-Work Agency, Bleach* Festival and Indigenous advisors Kyle Slabb, Vernon Ah Kee and Rhoda Roberts AO. Through mutual respect and understanding, an outcome that truly captures the spirit of Churaki was achieved.

Art-Work is extremely honoured to have played a part in capturing this piece of Australian history.

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