Celebrating Culture, Connection and Creativity at Merewether Heights: Dhiiyaan Art Mural by Jess
At Imagine Early Learning & Childcare – Merewether Heights, we believe that art is more than decoration — it’s a story, a connection, and a celebration of identity. This year, our outdoor space became even more special thanks to the incredible work of Jess, the talented artist behind Dhiiyaan Art.
About The Artist: Jess from Dhiiyaan Art
Jess is a proud Aboriginal woman, wife, and mother of two beautiful daughters. Born and raised on Awabakal land and now living on Wonnarua Country, Jess draws on her rich heritage with ancestral connections to the Barkindji, Ngemba, and Gamilaraay–Yuwaalaraay peoples of New South Wales.
Through Dhiiyaan Art, Jess shares her culture with the world, using her creative practice to tell stories of family, community, and belonging. Her artworks are filled with the spirit of connection — to Country, to kin, and to culture.
“My culture is at the heart of everything I create. It guides how I see the world, how I raise my children, and how I tell stories through my art.”
The Story Behind the Mural
The mural Jess created for Merewether Heights is so much more than just a beautiful feature — it’s a visual representation of the heart of our centre.
Designed with care, the mural tells a story of life, love, and learning within the Imagine community. Each gathering circle within the artwork includes tracks from animals that represent different rooms and the children in them: a kookaburra, emu, koala, and possum.
Flowing water winds throughout the mural, symbolising local waterways and the way children grow, move, and learn each day. The gentle movement of the design reflects how everything — both in nature and in our centre — is connected.
“I wanted the artwork to feel warm, welcoming, and full of joy — just like the people at Imagine.”
The Creative Process
Jess worked closely with the team at Merewether Heights to ensure the mural felt like a true reflection of the centre’s values. She took inspiration from the children, the educators, and the natural environment surrounding the centre.
Every colour, track, and shape in the mural is intentional — a vibrant expression of community, culture, and care.
The final piece spans the balcony, brightening the space and creating a visual anchor for both children and educators to connect with each day.
Looking Ahead: A Growing Partnership
Our collaboration with Jess and Dhiiyaan Art doesn’t stop here — in fact, it’s just the beginning of a truly special partnership.
Since the mural was completed, the children at Merewether Heights have been absolutely captivated by it. They stop to admire the vibrant colours, point out their favourite animal tracks, and talk excitedly about the artwork each day. It’s become a meaningful part of their daily routine and sparked so many beautiful conversations.
“The kids are obsessed! They stop and look at the mural every day and love finding the animals — especially the possum and kookaburra!”
Jess has shared that she’s “absolutely loving working with Imagine” — and the feeling is mutual. Plans are already underway to release t-shirts featuring two of her artworks, and Jess will be creating more murals across our Imagine centres.
We are proud to support and celebrate Aboriginal culture through partnerships like this — and to continue sharing Jess’s incredible talent and storytelling with our children, families, and community.
To learn more about Jess and her work, visit www.dhiiyaanart.com