My Grandmothers Baruŋgam Country

A Colourful Tribute to Baruŋgam Country and Culture
I created this painting to honour my grandmother and her Baruŋgam country, a land with a rich history and culture. The Baruŋgam are one of the tribal groups in the Maranoa and Balonne regions of Queensland, along with the Kunja, Budjari, and Kullilla. They have a deep bond with their ancestral lands, which they have nurtured and defended for generations.
The painting shows the varied landscapes and wildlife of the Baruŋgam country, from the red sand dunes and rocky outcrops to the green riverbanks and blue skies. The colours are bright and expressive, capturing the beauty and spirit of the land. I used acrylics mixed with Liquitex Soft Gel, a medium that makes the paint glossier, deeper, and more transparent. It also lets me create layers of colours and textures, giving the painting a rich and complex look.
The painting is more than a depiction of my grandmother's country; it is also a celebration of her life and legacy. She was a proud Baruŋgam woman who taught me our culture, language, and traditions. She encouraged me to follow my passion for art and to share our stories with the world. Through this painting, I want to honour her memory and to express my gratitude for her guidance and love.

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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.