Mural commemorates Uncle Sam Watson

July 17, 2020
Issue 
Uncle Sam Watson mural

Legendary Aboriginal activist Uncle Sam Watson has been memorialised in a new mural in West End's Bunyapa Park.

The mural was painted by Kamilaroi street artist Warraba Weatherall.

Greens councillor Jonathan Sri — who was involved in commissioning the artwork — said he is "really pleased that Uncle Sam's memory will be preserved in this park".

He also pointed out that Uncle Sam was "the elder who originally suggested the name 'Bunyapa' for this particular space".

Fittingly, the mural features Uncle Sam speaking into a microphone. He was a towering figure in the Brisbane movement for Aboriginal rights and regularly spoke at protests. He was also the Indigenous rights spokesperson for Socialist Alliance.

Other artworks are also appearing in the park, including this one by Boneta-Marie Mabo.

MuralPainting16-7-20ByAlexBainbridge-web.jpg

Aborginal flag mural being painted
Aborginal flag mural being painted, Bunyapa Park

And just across the road: "Land rights now please".

Bunyapa Park.

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