A SIGNIFICANT new public artwork celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the jarrah forest has begun and will become a place for learning, gathering and connection in the heart of Mundaring.

The Jarrah Leaf, a community sculpture by Western Australian artist Jason Maxlow, draws inspiration from the publication ‘The Nature of the Jarrah Forest’ by respected local naturalist Eric McCrum and his daughter Janine McCrum, a textile artist based in Denmark.

Designed as both a work of art and an outdoor learning space, the sculpture will invite visitors to discover the remarkable story of the jarrah tree and the rich web of life it supports.

More than an artwork, The Jarrah Leaf represents a vision for creating stronger connections between people of all ages, place and culture.

Through storytelling, environmental education and creative collaboration, the project aims to foster a greater sense of belonging, wellbeing and stewardship of the local environment.

“The sculpture will become a focal point for environmental education, cultural activities and community gatherings, encouraging conversations about local biodiversity, Indigenous knowledge and the importance of protecting the jarrah forest for future generations,” a spokesperson said.

Inspired by the enduring legacy of Eric McCrum’s work documenting the ecology of the jarrah forest, the project celebrates the diversity of local plant species and the relationships between plants, animals and people.

“This project is about creating a place where people can gather, learn and share stories,” Mundaring Arts Centre Inc project manager Jenny Kerr said.

“By combining art, nature and community participation, The Jarrah Leaf will help strengthen connections to Country and encourage a deeper appreciation of the extraordinary environment we all share.”

Throughout the design, development and fabrication process, the goal has been to engage a cross-section of the community.

First Nations Elders will play a role in guiding cultural knowledge, storytelling and the confirmation of Noongar names for local plants and animals, including bush tucker species providing opportunities to learn the traditional names of local plants and deepen understanding of Country.

Wheels – Seniors on the Move instigated the project which includes the Mundaring Ratepayers Group, Mundaring Men’s Shed, Friends of Sculpture Park West Landcare Group, Happy Hills Home Schoolers, and Aboriginal students and teachers from Mundaring Primary School which have and will actively contribute to the creation of the artwork.

Images of local species created during community workshops will become part of the finished sculpture, leaving a lasting legacy of community involvement.

“The jarrah forest belongs to all of us, and this project reflects that,” artist Jason Maxlow said.

“Every workshop, every story and every contribution becomes part of the sculpture. It’s not simply about creating an artwork – it’s about creating a place that continues to inspire curiosity, learning and connection.”

Installation of the sculpture will be delivered through collaboration between the project team, the Shire of Mundaring, landscape architects and contractors, ensuring the artwork is carefully integrated into the surrounding landscape and becomes a lasting landmark for the community.

The project is managed by MAC Inc, with project management by Jenny Kerr, and is made possible with funding support from the Shire of Mundaring, Lotterywest, and MAC Inc.

“Council is proud to support this exciting community project with a grant of $47,000. The Jarrah Leaf will create a unique place for people to gather, learn and connect while celebrating the stories, knowledge and natural beauty that make the Perth Hills so special,” Shire of Mundaring President Paige McNeil said.

“It’s wonderful to see local organisations, artists and community members working together to create something that will benefit future generations.”

As both a public artwork and a community meeting place, The Jarrah Leaf will stand as a lasting symbol of Mundaring’s commitment to celebrating its natural environment, recognising First Nations knowledge and building stronger, more connected communities.

A community event will be held to celebrate the completion of the artwork and to acknowledge all contributors to the project.