Mural by Kambarni (2021)
Commissioned by Brookfield Place and West Australian Opera
Celebrating ‘Koolbardi wer Wardong’ by Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse

This mural is poignant collaboration between West Australian Opera and Brookfield Place that celebrates the journey of Koolbardi wer Wardong. The opera is based on the story of Nyittiny, the time of Creation and is set on Noongar Boodja (the south west corner of Western Australia). The legend of Koolbardi wer Wardong has been told and retold for centuries, passed down from generation to generation and now this beautiful story has spread its wings on the stage at His Majesty’s Theatre in a brand-new opera commissioned by Wesfarmers Arts, composed by Gina Williams AM and Guy Ghouse.

This mural ensures the legacy of this production continues to spread its wings long after the curtain has since closed at His Majesty’s Theatre during the show’s inaugural season and deservedly so – Koolbardi wer Wardong is a uniquely West Australian story in all aspects. The story originated in Western Australia, this operatic retelling is retold in our traditional language, by local storytellers, creatives and performers.

Brookfield Place has long been a supporter of the arts and of West Australian Opera over the year and once again through this collaborative project, Brookfield Place has supported our future storytellers from artists like Kambarni and the cast and crew of Koolbardi wer Wardong, ensuring this story is shared, retold and embraced for years to come.

The Koolbardi wer Wardong mural features the two protagonists in flight, and upon close inspection patrons will be able to spot other elements from the opera and story, including other animals, sacred fireplaces and much more. Come and see this artwork for yourself and make sure to share your opera moment with us on socials by tagging @bfplperth and @westaustralianopera.