The Mambourin Marketplace may have just opened but will carry ancient stories, thanks to a local artist.
Wadawurrung woman, artist and high school teacher Chloe Chatterton recently completed her piece ‘’Woven through Country’ at the new shopping centre.
At the heart of the piece is a large central meeting place symbolising Mambourin, a space for people to come together, learn, and connect.
The textured blocks throughout reflect the diversity of Country, from native grasslands to rivers (Yaluks), sea (Warri), and the You Yangs (Wurdi Youang).
Watching over the piece is Bundjil, an ancestral spirit creator, whose presence reminds First Nations locals of their responsibility to care for Country and each other.
Flowing rivers and pathways weave throughout the artwork to represent journeys, movement, and our unbreakable bond with Country.
Circular symbols appear throughout, representing meeting places where knowledge is passed down, stories are shared, and culture continues
“I hope the piece invites people to feel a sense of respect, connection, and curiosity. I want it to encourage reflection on how we care for the land, how we listen to each other, and how we share stories,” she said.
“Whether someone is from the community or visiting, I hope it reminds them of the importance of place, culture, and unity.
“This piece is about honouring those relationships and recognising how deeply they shape who we are.
“I also wanted to reflect the diversity of the land and the resilience that comes from it, as well as the ongoing role of storytelling and knowledge-sharing in our communities.”
