What does it mean to you to be part of the National Indigenous Art Fair?
Being a part of the art fair makes me happy. I get to talk about my culture and paintings to new people.
How did you first become interested in art?
When my grandpa, Lofty Nadjamerrek, was alive, he taught me how to paint the stories. I would always ask him what he was painting, and he would show me. I knew that when I grew up, I would do painting too.
What is your preferred medium or artistic style?
I can do anything. I like to paint big and small, and some of my paintings become fabric designs, as I am a screen printer as well. I also enjoy trying new mediums.
Can you describe your creative process?
I like to give myself space to think about the image or work I’m going to do. I enjoy sitting outside, painting and having a cup of tea. Once I’ve completed my design or painting, I show it to my family and tell the young ones the stories behind it.
How does your Indigenous heritage influence your artwork?
The stories have been passed down, and we continue to paint them so our young ones can hear and paint them too, one day. It keeps our culture and heritage strong.
Can you share any traditional art forms or techniques that you incorporate into your work?
I use manyilk (sedge brush), which is a traditional reed brush, to paint the fine lines of the rarrk, the traditional style for Kunwinjku people.
How do you navigate the balance between honouring traditional practices and expressing your own unique artistic voice?
I make them equal. I love doing the traditional ways and trying new ways through my work. It keeps it open, allowing me to try new things while still maintaining the traditional style.
Are there any specific themes or subjects that you explore in your artwork?
I paint lots of different things. I think a lot about all the different stories in my family. I like to paint whatever comes to me in the moment. I’m thinking about doing a painting of a thylacine (Tasmanian tiger). They were here a long time ago, and I love looking at the rock art of that thylacine on Injalak Hill.
Can you describe any mentors or influences who have inspired your creative journey?
My grandfather, Lofty Nadjamerrek, was an amazing man. I used to live with him in Malgawa. He was very clever and had extensive knowledge of the land. He would walk that country with us, showing us where he had been before and imparting his knowledge. He took me to a rock art site and showed us how to paint on the rocks there.
Can you share any personal experiences or stories that have shaped your artistic practice as an artist?
I really like to think about it first and paint, taking my time and thinking about it. Anyone can paint.
What challenges do you face as an artist?
I don’t face any challenges. I just want to do my paintings and keep my culture strong.
Are there any specific places or environments that inspire your artwork?
When I go bush camping and sit in the bush, it makes me think more. Being away from the stresses of the community, I can just sit, paint and feel connected.
Event: The National Indigenous Art Fair
Date: Saturday 1 July – Sunday 2 July 2023
Time: 10.00am – 5.00pm
Location: Overseas Passenger Terminal, 130 Argyle St, The Rocks, Sydney
Entry: Entry by gold coin donation
Website: niaf.com.au
Facebook: facebook.com/
