Cowal Makiya
The Australian Government commissioned artwork for the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS), titled Cowal Makiya, the Mayi-Yapi word for “today’s land”.
Cowal Makiya was created by artist Leah Cummins, a proud Mayi woman from North-Western Queensland.
This vibrant piece showcases the six animal group chapters in the AAWS, highlights cultural connections to animals and promotes respect for traditional knowledge.
Mayi-Yapi is a language of the Mayi Nations of the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Artwork story
This artwork is inspired by the Australian environment, ever-changing landscape and animals. In the centre are the innovations and technologies used for centuries to hunt and protect the environment; the footprints represent the animals that make Australia unique.
From the land to the waterways, the lasting connections to the animals and environment where the research and information is gathered is a journey into the future learnings of how to make the Australian agricultural future stronger.
The resilience of the animals that exist from the lands, to the animals introduced, all play a vital role in keeping this country prospering.
