Nurture

The emu's role symbolises a deep commitment to nurturing and safeguarding. It illustrates the importance of taking on responsibility with dedication and care, much like the male emu diligently tends to its eggs. This sense of duty and protective instinct resonates with my own approach to caring for Country, the land and waterways.

Acrylic on canvas
50 x 40

Artists Bio

Natalie is a Kamilaroi/Wailwan woman and creates from her studio on the banks of the beautiful 
Natalie has always been creative and started painting to help heal from a significant traumatic event, as art and the creative process of using imagery and emotions, instead of words, was a way of storytelling and aiding Natalie’s healing. Natalie continued her artistic and professional development, studying Cultural Arts and Passion to Profit at TAFE NSW, being awarded a Certificate of Excellence and The NSW Gili Student of the Year Award for Design and Ideation in 2023. Natalie was chosen to exhibit her art in NSW Parliament House.

Natalie creates contemporary Aboriginal art that is feminine using a colour palette that is warm and soothing. Natalie uses both traditional iconographies mixed with her own interpretation and intricate dot painting. Her artwork tells stories of her family’s painful disconnection, challenges, inspiration, and reconnection associated with the removal of children and the Stolen Generation.  

Her piece Warranggal Yinarr (Strong Woman) was chosen as a finalist in the Saltwater Freshwater Arts touring exhibition. Natalie has also exhibited her work at the Saltwater Freshwater Gallery, Wauchope Art Gallery. Maclay Valley Gallery, The Historical Roto House and NSW Parliament House.