This Collection of works is inspired by visits to the East Kimberley of Western Australia

“Next stop Gija country and the Warmun Art Community. For me this was akin to going to the Source, where Rover Thomas bedded down the history of this area in his paintings for the world to view. I have been in awe of his work for many years.

Warmun artists are renowned for their use of natural ochre and pigments on canvas and the work is like none other. My visit gives me a wonderful opportunity to browse the current collection of art by the Gija people. Every work is powerful and expressive.

This community was devastated by flood in 2011. Many works were lost. I asked then how we could help when so much was taken away by the flood. I was told there was no flood fund, just buy art. Not hard to do here.

It is very hot and as I fall into a midday sleep I see the face of an indigenous man with stars in his beard. I am not sure what to make of this. Is it a welcome to country from the spirits of the land or perhaps what my mind has made of the stories I have just listened to?

I know of one story from another land that tells of stars in the hair of the spirit are the children yet to be born.

Then I think perhaps this old man is Rover and the stars the many people who would follow after him.

It is a very special place.

Artist Journal: September 2013