At The Sound Temple, the interplay between Art, Nature, and Sound forms a cornerstone of our approach to holistic healing. Nestled within the lush landscapes of Sawyers Valley, our gardens are much more than a serene backdrop—they are a source of inspiration and connection for the many artists, healers, and community members who gather here.
One of the most profound relationships we nurture is with the land itself, which was blessed by our beloved Aboriginal Elder, Dr. Noel Nannup, over a decade ago. Uncle Noel gifted the property its traditional Noongar name, Yunga Karak Boodja, meaning “Thank you or in appreciation of your interaction with the Red Tail Black Cockatoo Country.” This blessing set the foundation for a deep connection to country, making our gardens a space for cultural reverence, creativity, and healing.
Studio 28: Where Art Mirrors the Rhythm of Sound and the Serenity of Nature to Awaken Healing
yunga karak booja
Whether it’s through painting, sculpture, or community art projects like Koort Boodja – Heart Land, artists listen deeply to the rhythms of nature, capturing the essence of sound and light in their work. The subtle sounds of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the changing shadows of trees offer endless opportunities for creative interpretation.
Uncle Noel and the Garden’s Storytelling
Dr Noel Nannup and Founder Dawn Steel
Uncle Noel’s presence at The Sound Temple adds a layer of cultural richness to our connection with the land. His deep understanding of Aboriginal wisdom and storytelling enriches our appreciation of the natural world. As Uncle Noel often reminds us, the land is alive with stories waiting to be told. His guidance in sharing these ancient stories through sound and art brings a sense of continuity and reverence for the earth.
Our connection to art also extends to the collaborative work we’ve undertaken with artist Elina El Daher. Together with Uncle Noel, Elina works on projects Soul Art Legacy projects, community art pieces that reflect the deep spiritual connection people share with their culture and relationship to their land. Much like Louise Thorpe’s observation of the changing light in her garden, these projects are deeply influenced by the shifting elements of nature that surround us.
The Healing Power of Nature, Sound, and Art
Elegant Wind Chimes that Sing out in Nature on the Grounds of The Sound Temple – Lovingly Crafted and Gifted by C&J Croker
As visitors walk through the Gardens, they are invited to engage with the land in much the same way as the artists who create here. Sitting in the quiet of the trees, the sounds of nature become a form of healing. The subtle interplay of sound, light, and art brings about a sense of calm and grounded-ness, helping people reconnect with themselves and with the Earth.
The Gardens provide the perfect setting for workshops, sound healing ceremonies, corporate self-care days and community art projects. These gatherings offer opportunities to explore the intersection of art, nature, and sound, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience. In these spaces, the boundaries between artist and observer blur, creating a communal experience of beauty and healing.
A Shared Experience
We invite you to join us at The Sound Temple, whether it’s to participate in one of our events or simply to sit and enjoy the peaceful energy of the gardens. Much like the artists in the Mundaring Hills Open Studios trail, our space offers a retreat from the noise of everyday life, allowing you to reconnect with the rhythms of nature and your own inner creativity.
As Uncle Noel continues to guide us in caring for the land and honouring its stories, we look forward to sharing this journey with our community through Art, Sound, and Nature.
Come and experience the healing power of the gardens at The Sound Temple—a place where art, culture, and nature converge to create something truly special.