Underneath

Underneath
2026
Acrylic on Canvas
60 x 70 cm

“Underneath” was started during a workshop with Birrunga and the CCDP cohort.
Within the workshop we used different techniques to get our pieces started; through
various shapes, patterns and lines I was able to see mountain figures. Feeling that the
mountains were the right way to go, I decided to just commit and let the story come
through as time went on. Not long after I could see shape forming below and instantly
had the thought of the iceberg theory.
This work represents Blak businesses seen through the mountains, with the
underneath half representing the Ancestors. The Ancestors energy and knowledge
coming up and into these mountains - where they take this on and stand proudly
wearing these matching colours. These layers show the strength and connection while
also leaving space for the Ancestors to come through - where what they originally built
can be seen. Behind the mountains, a bright sunrise is seen which speaks on a rising
up of these businesses.
The piece is framed as I believe it speaks well to how Blak business are stereotyped;
It stands for being boxed in. However, I have burned organic squares - using linework
around the frame to show we can and are breaking out of these confines and doing
what has always been in our blood from our old people.