Australia's unique cultural perspective on space is presented to the world. 

At World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, the Australian Space Agency is presenting a distinctly Australian story, highlighting the deep connections between land, sky and all living things. A conceptual short film and feature artwork is highlighting Australia's First Nations cultural connection to space. 

Australia’s participation forms part of the broader Australian Pavilion theme “Chasing the Sun,” which showcases national strengths across space, health, science, the arts, and clean energy. The Pavilion provides an opportunity for Australian businesses, industries, and government to strengthen international partnerships and build connections in one of Asia’s most influential business and innovation hubs.

Maal: A visual expression of interconnectedness

At the centre of the Agency’s contribution is Maal, an artwork created by Gomeroi and Mandandanji artist and animator Jake Duczynski. In Gomeroi language, Maal means “One” – reflecting the cultural philosophy of interconnectedness between land, sky, and all living things.

Drawing from ancestral knowledge, Maal represents time as cyclical, where past, present and future coexist. It depicts the Milky Way (Warrambul), as a living river of stories and knowledge that guides life on Country. The artwork also represents three interconnected layers of family – immediate, community and the natural world – illustrating how Gomeroi identity and culture are woven into the fabric of existence, continuing to shape Australia’s relationship with space.
 

First Nations' Artwork ‘Maal’ [One: Gomeroi], by Jake Duczynski, Gomeroi Man
First Nations' Artwork ‘Maal’ [One: Gomeroi], by Jake Duczynski, Gomeroi Man

A short film about culture and space

In addition to the hero artwork, the Australian Space Agency has developed a conceptual short film that will be played daily in the Australia Pavilion forecourt. While a standalone piece, the film visually incorporates elements of Maal, creating a cohesive narrative of cultural storytelling and highlighting the theme of time being interconnected. 

The film acknowledges the enduring connection between Australia’s First Nations people and space, while also highlighting the role of space in understanding and protecting our planet. The film also showcases Australia’s growing space industry and future ambitions; presenting a uniquely Australian perspective that blends cultural knowledge with innovation.

About the artist

Jake Duczynski is a Gomeroi and Mandandanji writer, director, and animator. As co-founder of Studio Gilay, Jake collaborates with artists and communities to amplify First Nations voices through storytelling and design, blending cultural knowledge with contemporary animation. 

About the Expo

Australia will be among 161 participating countries and regions and 25 international organisations at the Expo. Japan’s Expo Association anticipate more than 28 million visitors will come to Expo including more than 3.5 million international visitors.

An illustration of Earth from space

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Our department recognises the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.

We Acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Custodians and Lore Keepers of the oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.