Personal and Professional
I have always thought that if someone has the ability and the time to look after more than themselves then they should.
Nina Simone said "When you give you always get your share."
From an early age I had a clear understanding that Art is a powerful medium that impacts both subconsciously and consciously. A major motivation for working with Aboriginal Art is that it gives my clients access to Aboriginal philosophy an culture via beautiful paintings. Art is a great vehicle for healing and learning.
Clients often ask me how I got into this field. I have grown up in a family that is culturally and environmentally aware. I was brought up to admire certain philosophies such as: Tread lightly on this earth as it is not yours to use. With these foundations I studied Fine Art before becoming Artist in Residence at a sculpture foundry in the Highlands of Scotland.
At 24 I realised that if I were to guarantee myself a long career working with the Art that I love, I would have to employ myself. Everything that I've learnt in business has been on the job through trial and error. Everything that I've learnt about Aboriginal culture has been from the people out bush.
Business began humbly. I borrowed $3000 to purchase my first collection and poured through hundreds of paintings before selecting the best 30. My keen eye for Art paid off and my first show in Ann Snell Gallery was sold out. Looking back five years I can't believe the path that I've trodden, but I have learnt so much making every decision along the way and earning the faith of every client.
Visiting out bush, it ain't all rosey. A hugely frustrating element of my work is seeing the complex emotional problems in Aboriginal communities that lead to depression and substance abuse, especially knowing that there is no quick fix. But as soon as someone picks up a paintbrush there is an assertion of purpose and pride, which is so valuable as there are no job prospects out bush. This industry has become a lifeline for Aboriginal communities with the added bonus of promoting and valuing their cultural identity. I think people have begun to realise that we missed out on so much Indigenous wisdom and now is the time to acknowledge our heritage, embrace and nurture our future.
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