My dad\u2019s family and I are proud Wiradjuri people. I grew up on beautiful Gumbaynggirr Country in a little coastal village called Scotts Head on the mid-north coast of NSW. I now live on Awabakal country in Newcastle. I have worked in retail the last 10 years, I am a mum and I love to paint.<\/p>\n
My work is mostly inspired by my family and country; their personal journeys and hardships influence my work immensely. My great-great-great-grandfather was a tracker and his knowledge of the bush and his country inspires me greatly. I am also often inspired by my family and other mob\u2019s hardships and I find art is really a healing outlet for me. My work is more contemporary and a reflection of mine and my family\u2019s story rather than our sacred dreaming stories.<\/p>\n
I usually use people sitting, which is the little \u201cU\u201d shape symbol and meeting circles. My dad, who\u2019s also an artist, uses a lot more animals and animal tracks in his hunting stories.<\/p>\n
Each piece can take a week to a month. I really have to be connected to what I\u2019m painting; if I\u2019m really inspired it just pours out of me; if I\u2019m not I have to wait until I feel it again.<\/p>\n
My connection to Country and our ancestors is something I share through my work as they\u2019re always entwined throughout my paintings. I also use art to tell our stories; we all have a story to tell and art helps start that conversation. People are often shocked when I talk about what my family went through and what still happens to our people today. If anything, I hope I can encourage people to want to learn for themselves.<\/p>\n
Come to our protests, sign our petitions, support other small business. Not just art, we do everything! Visit your local mob and take a tour on Country where you live. Read books \u2014 there are so many available now. Help us free our flag!<\/p>\n
Dad and I have been talking about painting together, so I\u2019d really love to do a few pieces with him.<\/p>\n