Wellema Tubowgale Prologue x Sydney Opera House

Unveiled as part of the Sydney Opera House’s 50th Anniversary, Wéllema Tubowgule is a meditative visual journey that honours the organic beauty of Gadigal Country. Projected across the iconic sails of the Opera House, this work serves as a prologue to Sam Doust’s exploration of the building’s architectural story—an artistic dialogue between past and present, culture and creation.

The title itself is steeped in meaning:
Wéllema – To Return or Come Back (Gadigal language)
Tubowgule – The traditional place name where the Sydney Opera House now stands (Gadigal language)

Co-directed by Jake Duczynski of Studio Gilay, a proud Gomeroi descendant, Wéllema Tubowgule is a deeply personal reflection of connection to Country. The piece invites audiences to pause and consider the textures, fibres, and flora that have long shaped this land—offering not just aesthetic reverence, but cultural remembrance.

Informed through a series of consultative workshops with First Nations Elders and practitioners from across Gadigal and Cammeragal territories, Wéllema Tubowgule embodies a respectful return to place and memory. It stands as both a celebration and continuation of cultural practice on the very land where the Sydney Opera House now rises.

Our heartfelt thanks to the team at the Sydney Opera House, Sam Doust, and the crew at Art Processors for their trust and collaboration in bringing this vision to life.

Accolades

• Winner – Experience Design, Fast Company Innovation by Design Awards, 2023

• Gold Winner – Architectural Installation, Good Design Awards, 2023

• Platinum Winner – Public Event, Muse Creative Awards, 2023

• Gold Winner – Experiential & Immersive (Live Experiences), Muse Creative Awards, 2023