Artist Statement

My work is deeply rooted in my Indigenous heritage, and I began my journey as an artist by expressing stories and connections through traditional styles. As my practice has grown, I’ve evolved into a more contemporary approach, while always staying true to my cultural roots. Recently, I’ve embraced the use of brighter colours and floral elements, bringing new energy and vibrancy into my work. This shift reflects both personal and creative growth, blending tradition with innovation in a way that celebrates identity, connection, and place.

Biography

Born in Townsville, I spent much of my childhood travelling to Winton to stay with my grandparents. Those early years were filled with adventures—fishing on riverbanks, camping under the stars, visiting shearing sheds, and attending the local school. My travels with my grandparents and mother also took me to Mount Isa and Townsville, where we connected with the places and stories of our elders. My grandfather was a proud Kamilaroi man, and my mother, a proud Kamilaroi woman, both of whom deeply shaped my cultural identity. My mother, a gifted artist herself, taught me to paint at a young age, helping me understand the power of art to connect with our heritage and give back to our culture. We painted together in the country, and as I grew older and moved away to pursue my education, my love for painting continued to grow. Over the years, I have poured myself into each piece of artwork, immersing myself in the process until it is complete. Each painting is an opportunity for me to connect with my ancestors andembrace my cultural roots, a practice that has shaped my identity as both an artistand a storyteller. For over two decades, I have dedicated myself to perfecting my unique painting style, and there is nothing more fulfilling than knowing that my artwork lives on in the hands of others. It is an honor to share these stories with the world, and it fills me with pride when my daughter asks about where each piece is going. I am able to tell her that part of our story is leaving to find a new home, and that someone saw something in that story they loved. The time I spend painting, instead of playing with her, is more than just a personal pursuit—it's a legacy. Each piece I create is a gift for her future, a reminder that the cultural and artistic practices we hold dear can continue to live on. And when the time comes that I am no longer physically present beside her, my work will remain as a source of pride and a connection to our shared heritage.

Influences

As an artist, I’m inspired by the world around me, especially the natural beauty of florals, traditional earthy colours, and the ever-changing weather. When I look at a landscape, the ocean, or the night sky, I’m drawn to capture it the way I see and feel it. My work is a reflection of those moments, blending emotion and observation to bring each place to life on the canvas.

Exhibitions

2020 Tara Show Society 2025 RME Downlands Exhibition