Sandon Gibbs-O’Neill, How The Sky Was Built, 2024

Acrylic on canvas, 110x70cm

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A long time ago in the Burruguu (Creation) when there were only animals on the earth and all the animals were building the sky. They had succeeded in building most of it but there was one last piece that was missing and needed to be placed at the very top of the sky in the centre.

One by one, each of the animals attempted to place this last piece. Starting with the great climbers – the Sand Goanna, the Koala, and the Possum – they climbed up but when the sky started to curve, they all fell down. A little lizard kept pestering them to have a go but they told him to go away because he was too small.

Then the birds attempted – the Eagle, the Hawk, the Galah – they flew up to the top of the sky but it was too much of a long way and the piece started to become too heavy for them so they dropped it before being able to put it in place. The little lizard kept asking if he could have a go but they told him to go away because he was too young.

Even the snakes had a go but they were not able to climb all the way to the top of the sky.

The little lizard kept pestering and eventually they laughingly told him he couldfinally have a go. The little lizard took the last piece in his mouth and because he was so, light and small he managed to climb all the way to the top of the sky and successfully placed the last piece in the sky.

He is now called ‘boomayahmayahmul’ to show respect to his feat.

As a proud Nhunggabarra artist, my work is deeply rooted in the stories, traditions, and landscapes of my heritage. For the past eight years, I have dedicated myself to exploring and expressing my culture through acrylic paintings on canvas and various public murals. My art serves as a bridge between cultures, weaving together traditional teachings and contemporary perspectives. Through this fusion, I aim to share the richness of my Aboriginal identity with a broader audience. Each piece reflects my deep connection to the land, the generations before me and the stories that have been passed down through time.

Drawing from my experiences and the wisdom of my Grandfather Tex Skuthorpe, I aim to highlight the profound connection between people and the land, emphasising the importance of respect and stewardship. Each piece is infused with the spirit of my community, reflecting the resilience and beauty of Aboriginal culture.

Art, for me, is a powerful medium for storytelling and healing. I believe that by sharing these stories, we can foster greater understanding and appreciation for Aboriginal perspectives. This exhibition is not just a display of art, it is an invitation to join me on a journey of discovery and understanding. I hope my work allows conversations about resilience, identity, and the importance of preserving our cultural narratives for future generations.

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Artwork is available for collection or shipping after the closing date of the exhibition, November 2nd 2024.

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