Artist statement

I paint my Ngura (Country) and its red sand. This land is my grandfather’s country, he stood on this ground before me. I feel that connection to my family as I paint. This land that has held its many generations. This land is always changing, the rains come, and the winds shift. The red sand never changes, it is always here. I love the strong colours of the sand. When the sun sets, you can see the glow of the earth. I paint this country so people can see my land, they can appreciate its beauty and understand its power. Our culture is very strong here, we teach our children in the community school, and we also teach them through our paintings, and through our time spent on Country. It is very important that the next generation understands by heart the Tjukurpa that has been passed down to us from our ancestors over many years. We tell the young people, you must listen and learn. It is important to keep our culture alive and strong long into the future. My mother Kunmanara (Sadie) Singer, started Iwantja Arts many years ago with Alec Baker. She had a strong vision for the future of our community and also for sharing our stories and keeping our culture strong through the art centre. I think about her when I make my paintings. When I paint my Country, when I dance and sing the songs of my Country, I feel the spirit of my family and ancestors close to me. Their presence continues to watch over us and keep us strong.