In 2023, Rubeun Yorkshire and I were awarded the Brabham Primary School public art commission amid the national discourse surrounding the Voice to Parliament referendum. Our response is a two-storey sculptural language map, honouring over 250 Indigenous languages and 800 dialects through interconnected songlines.Rather than rely on the often-repeated “six seasons” motif, and defaulting to the often-ubiquitous “six seasons” theme—frequently positioned as the primary representation of First Nations knowledge in public art— we foregrounded language as a living archive—centering cultural continuity, education, and representation. The work champions First Nations figures whose contributions to art, politics, education, community and sport offer students a broader, deeper understanding of leadership and excellence to aspire to.Though some questioned its political nature, and perceived suitability of such content for a primary school setting, we are proud that this work now exists within a public education space. We believe its presence can actively shape school culture, broaden understandings of leadership and resistance, and help young people grow up with a deepened awareness of the diverse figures who have shaped this continent. we believe that public art in schools can be provocative, aspirational, and grounded in truth.Through extensive consultation, we identified and curated a list of 50 significant figures. we choose figures, whom we both admire deeply, offer students a counter-narrative to mainstream heroism and provide a rich foundation for culturally responsive learning.the Featured Figures(heroes):Albert NamatjiraCathy FreemanRoma WinmarNeil Elvis “Nicky” WinmarFanny Balbuk YooreelKathy YarranCharles Nelson PerkinsDavid UnaiponArchibald William RoachGina WilliamsMay O’BrienEddie MaboAshleigh Jacinta BartyDavid Dhalatnghu Gulpilil