Commissions in Aboriginal Communities

In 2014 I was commissioned by FORM to work on Malbatharndu Wanggagu - Once Upon a time in the West. A major project (2014) examining pastoral activity in the Pilbara from an Aboriginal perspective. The book and exhibition are the result of a close collaboration between Banyjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli people, elders of the IBN Aboriginal Corporation, anthropologist Andrew Dowding, photographer Claire Martin (WA), contemporary Aboriginal artist Reko Rennie, and FORM. 

Works from the project were collected by the Western Australian Museum, the National Gallery of Australia and the National Library as an acknowledgement of the unique and landmark documentation of history from an Aboriginal perspective, in combination with artistic excellence. The publication was shortlisted for a MAPDA award.  

To hear more abou this project please follow this link.  

https://www.form.net.au/case-study/marlbatharndu-wanggagu 

I have continued to work with Aboriginal anthropologist Andrew Dowding in the region, most recently creating large format portraits and panoramic landscapes to provide a public art outcome for his ethnomusicology thesis on the Tabi music tradition of the Pilbra.  

Most recently I have embarked on a creative mentorship with Warakurna Art Centre, identifying Kristabell Porter as a talented local working in the photographic medium. I aim to nurture talented story tellers in communities, regardless of the medium they work in, and help them connect their voice with a larger audience.