CBA unveils new Indigenous artwork 

In celebration of NAIDOC Week, and to demonstrate our deepest respect for First Nations voices, Commonwealth Bank has today unveiled a special piece of Indigenous artwork.

Co-created by Kuku Yalanji and Woopaburra artist Leona McGrath, Indigenous organisation Yerrabingin, Commonwealth Bank’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees, and members of the community, the creative design visually expresses CBA’s refreshed brand and values.

The artwork is designed to symbolise the bank’s respect for and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures as part of its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). 

Speaking about the artwork, CBA Group Executive Human Resources, Sian Lewis, said the design would eventually be weaved through the fabric of the bank including branches, digital assets and on uniforms.

“This launch is a wonderful way to start off NAIDOC Week. CommBank plays a significant leadership role in supporting our communities – and this means using our platform to support meaningful and sustainable outcomes for Indigenous communities. We are really proud of this work,” she said.

“The design conveys three central themes: Community, Connections and Wellbeing, and pairs some of the CBA colours with traditional Aboriginal designs to create an artwork and narrative that will conjure connectedness and pride with our customers, communities and our people.”

Artist Leona McGrath is a proud Aboriginal woman who is originally from Queensland from the Woopaburra People of Great Keppel Island and Kuku Yalanji People of Far North Queensland, and has been painting for over 30 years.

Growing up on Gadigal Country, Leona said she has been blessed with a strong sense of connection to Country by being welcomed into the Community.

The 2021 NAIDOC Week theme, Heal Country! – calls for Australians to continue to seek greater protections for our lands, our waters, our sacred sites and our cultural heritage from exploitation, desecration and destruction.