Camden Council is inviting First Nations artists to help share and celebrate Country, culture and local stories as part of the John Street Public Domain Upgrade and Activation Project.
Expressions of Interest are open to First Nations artists and artist teams to register their interest in creating a public artwork, with registrations closing Monday 16 November 2026. Following assessment, up to four shortlisted applicants will be invited to develop and present a concept proposal. The successful artist or artist team will then be commissioned to deliver the final artwork.
The site-responsive artwork is proposed for a new pocket garden near the entrance to Camden Public School, where it will be integrated to create a welcoming space for gathering, reflection and connection.
Guided by the curatorial theme 'Connecting with Country', the artwork will celebrate the cultural significance of the area and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to deepen their connections to Country, culture, story and place.
Selected artists are encouraged to explore themes including local ecology, waterways, cultural histories, language, seasonal knowledge and native planting, with creative responses that reflect the unique character of Camden.
The artwork may take many forms, from sculptural elements and cultural storytelling features to integrated seating, mosaics, paving or other creative approaches that respond to the surrounding landscape.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Vince Ferreri, said the opportunity would help bring First Nations perspectives and cultural narratives into the heart of Camden's town centre.
"Public art can help us connect with the stories, culture and history of the places we call home, creating spaces that invite people to pause, reflect and learn," he said.
"This is an opportunity for First Nations artists to share their perspectives through contemporary public art that celebrates Country and contributes to a stronger sense of pride, identity and belonging in our community.
"We look forward to seeing the ideas artists bring forward and how their work can help create a meaningful and welcoming space for the Camden community."
The commission forms part of Council's $23.1 million John Street Public Domain Upgrade and Activation Project, funded by the NSW Government's Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
The broader project aims to enhance Camden's town centre through improved pedestrian experiences, increased cultural activation and more accessible, vibrant and welcoming public spaces for residents and visitors.
For more information, and to submit an Expression of Interest when applications open, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/cultural-development-and-arts/expression-of-interest-first-nations-public-art-john-street-pocket-garden
