Members of the IGS community may be familiar with the artwork Little Orange Tree, but how many know its story? It began with a poem by IGS Alum Valerio de Simoni (Class of 2003; 1986-2011) that went on to inspire a mixed-media artwork by Jane Parkes and a musical work by Paul Jarman and his partner Bonnie Nilsson.
Valerio de Simoni was an adventurous boy of generous spirit, who was passionate about environmental sustainability, social equality, travel, and film. Initially reluctant to attend IGS and unenthusiastic about academics, this changed soon after meeting teachers who were able to capture his interest and motivate him. Some years after finishing his HSC, he and two friends set out to raise $100,000 for Oxfam Australia. This record-breaking trip spanned two continents and 37 countries. Valerio was unfortunately hit by a runaway vehicle in Lilongwe, Malawi, months before the voyage’s end. After his death, his family established a charity in his name.
Originally written in Italian, the poem likens the reciprocity in friendship to an orange tree. The tree gives to the world through fruiting, then takes up sunlight and water as nourishment. This highlights how friendships nourish individuals, and how our friends are touched by our presence. This reciprocity forms the basis of communities and can be seen in IGS’ culture and way of being.
During our 30th Anniversary, IGS commissioned Paul Jarman and Bonnie Nilsson for a number of musical works. The resulting work, Orange Tree, adapted lyrics from the poem’s English translation and combined them with haunting and ethereal instrumentation. The song emphasises that beauty is all around us in the world and should be appreciated.
Upon hearing the song at a music camp and learning of Valerio’s story, Jane Parkes created the artwork, featured below.
“There is something so poignant and moving about this lovely song being sung by our youngest children with their pure voices and pure hearts, especially when you know about the song’s inspiration,” reflects Principal Shauna Colnan.
Through living authentically, his consideration for others, and striving to make the world a better place, Valerio and his words form an important part of IGS’ story.
The Orange Tree will form part of the section Our Land in the 40 Years Young: Vive La Révolution concert. This will be held at the International Convention Centre on 26 June 2024.
Thank you to Darren Kuilenberg for providing a copy of the CD, Love for the Turning World. It includes two tracks inspired by Valerio’s words, the title track and Orange Tree.
About the Valerio Daniel de Simoni Association
The Valerio Daniel de Simoni Association is a non-profit, secular, benevolent organisation set up in honour of Valerio’s life. It provides relief for refugees, asylum seekers, and Australia’s First Nations youth. If you would like to learn more, their website can be found here: http://www.valeriodesimoni.org/en/
Sources
Cooks Hill Galleries n.d., Jane Parkes Little Orange Tree, <https://cookshillgalleries.com.au/products/little-orange-tree>
Guinness World Records 2012, Book of World Records 2013, Jim Pattison Group, London.
International Grammar School 2014, Learning Journeys: 30 Years of International Grammar School, International Grammar School, Sydney.
Valerio Daniel de Simoni Association, Inc n.d.a., Home. <http://www.valeriodesimoni.org/en/>
Valerio Daniel de Simoni Association, Inc. n.d.b., Valerio Diaries Book 1. <http://www.valeriodesimoni.org/en/about-us/valerio-diaries-book-1/>