An iconic Canberra bus shelter has been transformed into a vibrant celebration of belonging, inclusion and reconciliation, showcasing the creativity and vision of a talented local primary school student.
The artwork, created by nine-year-old student Joy Puza, was selected through the ACT’s Reconciliation Day school art competition and has been brought to life on a public bus shelter on Brigalow Street in O’Connor by Aboriginal artist Kalara Gilbert.
Joy said her artwork is about inclusion and connection.
“My artwork is about everyone being included and coming together, even though we’re all different. I wanted to show that people can belong and be connected no matter who they are,” she said.
“I hope when people see it, they think about being kind, including others and looking after each other.”
Artist Kalara Gilbert said it was important to remain true to the student’s original design while adapting it for the bus shelter.
“I wanted to preserve all the key elements of Joy’s artwork and stay true to her vision. It’s important that the young artist’s imagery and message remain at the heart of the mural.”
The ACT Government first introduced the Reconciliation Day bus shelter initiative in 2024, when the winning artwork from Canberra High School student Harper Hudson was transformed into a mural at Macquarie. The project expanded in 2025 with Year 6 student Noah Yong’s artwork installed at the O’Connor shops bus shelter.
Quotes Attributable to Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Suzanne Orr:
“Every year, ACT students share thoughtful and inspiring perspectives through the Reconciliation Day poster competition, and Joy’s artwork is a wonderful example of that.
“Her message is simple but powerful: everyone belongs. Through colour, creativity and imagination, she has created an artwork that reminds us we can all be different while still coming together as one community.
“Public art has a unique ability to spark reflection and conversation. Thousands of Canberrans will see this artwork as they go about their day, creating opportunities to think about respect, understanding and our shared future.
“I thank Joy for sharing her creativity with Canberra, and Aboriginal artist Kalara Gilbert for carefully preserving and amplifying Joy’s artistic vision.”
