Designing with Country is an approach to design and planning that “recognises the unique systems of knowledge and ways of being of Aboriginal people”. Projects using this design approach are aiming to integrate Indigenous voices as the foundation and by doing so bring a stronger connection between culture, the land and its inhabitants.

Our latest product, CREATIV, has been designed to make the process of bringing culturally sensitive designs to life, on a wide range of wood look and natural timber veneer panels. There is a timeless beauty that comes to life when an artwork is incorporated onto wooden panels, especially Indigenous artwork. When these two forms combine, it becomes a celebration of culture, an acknowledgement of the roots of Aboriginal people and a statement of artistic expression.

Wood, with its natural charm and durability, serves as the perfect canvas when designing for country. The timber look panels not only display the artwork; they complement it, enhance it, and add a whole new dimension to it. The significance of wood in Aboriginal culture further accentuates this union, as the Aboriginal culture has always had a deep connection with wood, using it for both practical and symbolic purposes.

Bathurst-based Wiradjuri artist, Meleisa Cox has created an artwork to illustrate the SUPAWOOD Community. Here is her original artwork, and the CREATIV artwork on SUPATEXTURE in Tasmanian Oak along with her explanation of the painting:

“This artwork represents the Aboriginal community and our connection to wood. On the trunk of the trees there are black markings that symbolise where our people would cut-out a Coolamon (a tool used to carry food etc.). I have also included boomerangs in the lower background as these are also made from wood.”

The above illustrates the fusion of art and nature – it's not simply about just placing an artwork on a timber panel; it's about marrying the two to create a stunning and unique architectural masterpiece. We see CREATIV as a collaborative partnership that will guide you through the journey of designing for country or working on a culturally sensitive design.

By choosing to use SUPAWOOD panels for your design, you also have access to a range of finishes to meet your specific needs. This allows you to choose a ‘canvas’ based not only on aesthetics but also on any fire ratings or acoustic requirements that your project may have.

Our process is simple, yet effective. We start by understanding your vision and the space where the artwork will be incorporated. We then guide you to make sure that the artwork is created and supplied in the format required or we can also assist with this process. Once the artwork is ready, the SUPAWOOD team does the rest – fusing the wood-look panels and the Indigenous artwork.

At SUPAWOOD, we believe that true beauty lies in authenticity. We recommend working with Aboriginal artists local to your area or the project location. If you want to discuss a project or design, get in touch with us today.