Q&A with our artist Holly Sanders

 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your mob and your journey as an Artist?

“Jingi Walla”. My name is Holly Sanders, I am a proud Bundjalung woman from the North Coast, NSW. Part of my childhood was spent growing up on Country before moving down to Yuin Country on the South Coast, NSW. I am a wife, mother, artist and a primary school teacher teaching on Dharawal Country. I’d firstly like to honour the continuing connection Bundjalung, Yuin and Dharawal people have to the land and acknowledge the Elders, stories, traditions and living cultures of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the oldest and longest continuing culture on the planet.

 

What inspired you to start creating art, and how has your journey evolved over time?

I have always loved art and I was drawing and painting before I could write. I have a Chronic Illness and was sick a lot during my childhood, so I would always paint and sketch in hospital and at home in bed. I think it helped with my resilience and healing.

Today, I still battle with my health, and painting is still good for my healing and wellbeing. It also takes me back spiritually and historically to who I am. From a young age I watched my mother paint and I hope to pass on my love of art, cultural storytelling and painting onto my two young daughters.

 

 

Are there particular stories, traditions, or experiences that influence your work?

My art shares stories about culture and Country. Stories from the past and painting connections to Country, the land, sea and sky, are key influences for me. The overall theme of most of my work is about ‘Jagun’- Country. It is what inspires me and what I always love to paint.

 

How does your art help you stay connected to your culture and heritage?

I spent a lot of my childhood on Country near the water. Many days were spent at the beach on Saltwater Country. Connection to Country is important for me, and is something I enjoy painting about. Country is more than a place. It is part of our lives in every aspect - spiritually, physically, emotionally, socially and culturally. It is a priority for my children and I to spend time on Country to create memories and pass on cultural stories and connections with them.

Water and Country sustains me in every way, such as our spiritual relationships, languages, songlines, Dreaming’s, sacred places, flora and fauna. I paint these stories, and use these patterns and colours as a way to share with everyone its importance and the custodial responsibilities that we have to protect for our future jarjums (children) and generations.

 

 

Why do you believe it's important to share Aboriginal culture through art?

My work is about sharing, celebrating and acknowledging our culture and history. I want people to learn, take pride in and respect the culture that has cared for this land for thousands of years. We are a strong and resilient people, and we are still here- the world’s oldest continuous living cultures and communities. This connection and relationship continues to remain strong today and it is this connection that feeds my spirit and shapes my work.

 

What do you hope people take away when they see or purchase your art?

That our art is steeped in storytelling and plays a crucial role in our culture. As a contemporary artist, I use my art as a tool in storytelling to educate and share culture, history and Country. Also being a teacher, educating through my art is something I’m really passionate about.

The symbols and patterns used throughout my contemporary work are usually related to Country, women and Women’s Business. First Nations art is so diverse and is not an art form that everyone can paint or be ‘inspired by’. It is intrinsically linked to the longest continuing culture, to preserve our culture. Each line, symbol and art style has sacred meaning and it’s important to share that the storytelling and symbols used in my art does not represent all First Nations cultural groups or people.

 

What message would you like to share with the next generation of Aboriginal artists?

Our next generation have a responsibility to carry on the tradition of their ancestors by continuing to pass down stories and culture. Stay true to your culture, identity and heritage. Let your art reflect your unique identity and connection to community and Country. Your stories, lived experiences and traditions are sacred and invaluable.

Before painting, learn from Elders, seek guidance from those who have come before you. They hold the wealth of knowledge and wisdom and cultural protocols around our art and art styles. Connect with other Aboriginal artists and build supportive relationships.

Protect your cultural rights, be aware of intellectual property laws and advocate for fair compensation for your artwork. Our art is sacred, believe in yourself. Never doubt yourself or your ability to make a difference. Be proud and don’t be ‘shame’.

 

 

Why do you think it's important for younger generations to connect with their culture and stand proud in their identity?

It’s SO important that our kids and younger generation are culturally strong in their identity and are connected, involved and feel proud of their culture and community. From a teacher's perspective, cultural safety and culture in schools is also important for Aboriginal children and young people. Our culture is sacred, it empowers our children, is a source of strength and resilience and builds self-esteem. Not only that, but it’s important for non-Aboriginal children to know and learn about our true history, truth telling and culture which works toward genuine reconciliation, recognition and respect.

 

What has been your proudest moment as an Aboriginal artist?

Creating work for bigger international musicians and artists that have visited to perform here. Knowing that they have my artwork and a part of my culture and that they know the cultural storytelling is pretty deadly. At the same time, volunteering on the board at my local ACCO (Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation), creating cultural educational resources, art workshops at preschool and donating art to mob and grassroots communities and schools is especially rewarding and something I’m more proud of. I’m also proud and grateful for the opportunities I have had and being able to collaborate with companies that fundraise and donate profits back to communities and mob.

 

Are there any collaborations or projects that hold a special place in your heart?

Working with Emro Designs definitely holds a special place in my heart. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be able to share my art and culture through Emro Design’s products. I’m super proud of Emma and all she has done to grow Emro Designs to where it is today. She is a real inspiration, not only as an Aboriginal woman and business woman who has grown her 100% Aboriginal owned business but how she also balances life and being a mum. Emma also supports many emerging Aboriginal artists, who can then continue to grow and support their own communities. She gives me full creative control with my art and her products, rugs and cushions are especially beautiful. It’s so heartwarming to see my art on rugs and products in schools, early learning centres and organisations all over Australia!

Another recent project close to my heart is my book titled ‘Jagun’, which is a colouring book for both adults and children. It aims to not only educate but also celebrates the land, sky, waters, flora and fauna that form Country.

“Bugalbah”- Thank you!