Sculpture of Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG

Robert Hannaford AM and Mahailia Levinson

Sculpted by Robert Hannaford, the sculpture of Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG is the first of six new statues and monuments in Adelaide to honour Aboriginal leaders and celebrate First Nations history.

Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG, a Yankunytjatjara and Pitjantjatjara woman, was an inspiring leader and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. She was the first Aboriginal person to train as a nurse at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and spent her life advancing First Nations people.

Mahailia Levinson’s artwork is displayed at the base of the plinth supporting Dr. Lowitja O'Donoghue’s statue. The design features an owl, a significant symbol with which Lowitja shared a deep personal connection.

The Aboriginal Statues and Monuments Project publicly repositions the achievements and impact of South Australia’s Aboriginal leaders within the broader socio-historical context of South Australia. The project aims to educate current and future generations, grow awareness of Aboriginal peoples and cultures, create an enduring connection between past and present, promote reconciliation and foster pride. For more information on this artwork see the Guildhouse website.

The sculptures are commissioned by the South Australian Government in partnership with the City of Adelaide.