Artwork Name: Self Love
Tell us about your personal style of artwork and where you get your inspiration from:
I used bold colour combinations and contemporary Indigenous art to express thoughts and feelings. Usually, I get inspired by yarning with friends and family, and other times it comes from personal experiences and the knowledge I learn over the years.
Where did the inspiration behind this piece of artwork come from?:
This artwork reflects my feelings of self-love but also the journey of finding it as well as knowing my worth. Before I thought I needed the approval from others because when I thought people did not like me, I did not like myself. Now looking back, I’ve realised how unfair it was to treat myself so harshly. I’ve learnt that self-love takes time. It also takes the courage to surround yourself with those who appreciate your brilliant mind and beautiful soul, not those who put shame on it. Although this can only take you halfway as the rest of the work comes from you loving everything that makes you what you are today. Self-love is my greatest comfort.
Why did you name your artwork Self Love?:
Self love is a definition that is different for everyone. For me, it is about knowing my worth and being okay with myself even on bad days. I want audiences to feel loved in their own way and to embrace themselves as everyone’s aura glows or sparkles in their own way.
What was your favourite part about collaborating with Mali, headspace and the other artists on this project?:
I’ve really enjoyed this collaboration, and it has truly helped me grow confident in expressing my art. Talking with other artists and headspace team was such a great experience because it was a safe space, and everyone appreciated and respected each other’s talent.
Having Mali as a mentor was very inspiring as seeing a successful Aboriginal woman made me believe that I also had a chance to create beautiful art and share it with everyone. I loved chatting with the other artists because it was empowering and exciting to know that the next generation of Indigenous artists were making their way in this world and that I am a part of it. I think it’s very important that we’ve collaborated with headspace to raise awareness for mental health as it should be normalised and talked about more in a positive way.
How do you wish to create a better future for yourself and others?:
Through my art I hope to make mob feel deadly but also anyone to feel like they belong and relate to my art in their own unique way.
