BARUNGGUM YARNING 2

Discover the Mystical World of Aboriginal Art

Aboriginal art is more than just a visual expression of creativity. It is a way of connecting with the ancestral spirits, the land, and the culture of the indigenous people of Australia. Aboriginal art is rich in symbolism, storytelling, and spirituality. It reflects the diversity and complexity of the Aboriginal worldview, which is based on thousands of years of oral tradition, observation, and experience.

One of the most distinctive features of Aboriginal art is the use of vibrant colours, which are often derived from natural sources such as ochre, clay, charcoal, and plant extracts. These colours are used to create intricate patterns, shapes, and motifs that represent various aspects of the natural and spiritual world. Some of the common symbols include dots, circles, lines, animal tracks, and human figures.

Another characteristic of Aboriginal art is the use of mixed media, which enhances the texture, depth, and gloss of the artworks. One of the techniques that I use in my artworks is Liquitex Soft Gel, which is a medium that can be mixed with acrylic paint to create different effects. Liquitex Soft Gel can increase the surface gloss, colour depth, and transparency of the paint, as well as extend its volume without affecting its stability. It can also give the paint an oil-like colour, which adds to the richness and vibrancy of the artwork.

One of the inspirations for my artworks is yarning, which is a term that refers to the informal conversations that Aboriginal people have to share knowledge, stories, and wisdom. Yarning is not limited by time or topic; it is a flexible and spontaneous way of communicating that fosters trust, respect, and understanding. Yarning is also a way of creating a safe space for people to express their feelings, opinions, and perspectives. Through yarning, I learn more about myself, my culture, and my community.
I hope that through my artworks, you can also discover the mystical world of Aboriginal art and appreciate its beauty, meaning, and significance.

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Artist Statement
I was born in Cunnamulla, a small town in southwestern Queensland, on the edge of Barunggam Country. My yumba—my traditional home—is the land of the Barunggam people, who, for thousands of years, have walked gently on this Country as part of the Wakka Wakka language group. Our connection to the Darling Downs runs deep, shared with neighbouring clans like the Keinjan, Giabal, Jarowair, Bigambal, Kambuwal, and Jagara—each with their own sacred stories, songs, and traditions.

As an Aboriginal artist, my work is more than a visual experience—it is a spiritual practice, a cultural responsibility, and a personal journey. My inspiration comes from the land, from our Dreaming, and from the teachings of my wise grandad. Through him, I learned that painting is not about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Every line, every dot, every colour carries emotion, memory, and meaning.

I do not paint to follow trends or fit into boxes. I paint from feeling and truth. My art is a language—spoken through ochre tones, deep blues, and patterns shaped by the rhythm of Country. It is how I honour my ancestors, how I keep our stories alive, and how I share our culture with the world.

Each piece I create is a declaration:
This is who I am. This is where I come from. This is my story.

Through my work, I hope to offer a glimpse into the soul of Barunggam Country, to connect others with the strength, beauty, and resilience of Aboriginal culture. My art is a tribute to the generations who walked before me—and a message to the generations still to come.