Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo 3

Dive into the Unique Universe of Aboriginal Art. In the creation of this piece, vibrant colours were meticulously selected to bring forth a dynamic visual experience. It incorporates layers of Mixed Media with Liquitex Soft Gel to enhance the artwork's overall aesthetic. The application of Liquitex Soft Gel serves multiple purposes: it not only increases surface gloss, colour depth, and transparency but also extends the colour's reach without compromising the acrylic's stability. Moreover, it imparts an oil-like colour to heavy body paint, enriching the texture and finish.
The Red-tailed Black Cockatoo, a majestic bird known for its striking black plumage and vibrant red tail panels, has become an emblem of the delicate balance of Australia's ecosystem. The species, which once thrived across vast swathes of the continent, has seen its numbers dwindle due to a combination of habitat destruction, competition for nesting sites, and the pervasive impact of wildfires. In Western Australia, the subspecies Calyptorhynchus banksii naso, commonly referred to as the Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo, is particularly at risk, with its conservation status listed as Vulnerable. This classification underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these birds and their habitats.

Artists have long been inspired by the beauty and plight of these cockatoos, often depicting them in various mediums such as acrylic on canvas. Such artworks not only capture the bird's aesthetic appeal but also serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of our natural world. When accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity, these pieces transcend mere decoration, becoming powerful statements of support for environmental causes.

Follow

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.