RED TAILED BLACK COCKATOOS UNDER THE SOUTHERN CROSS

The Black Cockatoo, revered in Aboriginal lore, especially among the Yuin people, symbolizes transformation and resilience. This bird's evolution from white to black plumage, as legend has it, due to a bushfire, is more than a story; it reflects the Yuin's profound ecological knowledge. The cockatoo's dietary habits, its role in seed dispersal, and its contribution to forest renewal are all intricately woven into these narratives. These stories passed down through generations, highlight the Yuin's stewardship of their land, underscoring principles of sustainable living and harmony with nature. Thus, the Black Cockatoo serves as a conduit between the ancient and the contemporary, carrying age-old wisdom into today's world and underscoring the deep ties between cultural heritage and biodiversity. The Southern Cross, or Crux, is a prominent feature in the night sky of the Southern Hemisphere and holds significant cultural and navigational importance. It has guided countless sailors and explorers and is featured on the Australian flag, representing the country's rich history and diverse natural wonders. The image of the black cockatoos under the starlit canvas of the Southern Cross evokes a powerful sense of freedom and the enduring connection between the land, its creatures, and the cosmos. This scene captures the essence of the Australian landscape, where wildlife and celestial bodies coexist in a delicate balance, inspiring awe and reverence for the natural world.

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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.