Sandon Gibbs-O’Neill, Rainbow Serpent, 2024

Acrylic on canvas, 110x70cm

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The earth gave birth to a snake and it wriggled over the earth making all the river beds as it went. The snake then asked for the frogs to be born. The frogs were born in a sack of water so the snake tickled them and made them laugh. They laughed so hard that the sacks burst, releasing the water and filling all the river beds. With the coming of water to the land, all the plants, trees, birds and animals were made. The Creator then told the animals that there were certain places they could not go.

Some of the animals broke the law by going to these places and they were turned into hills, mountains and valleys in the landscape. These animals who broke the law became law totems. The animal who broke the law in Nhunggal country was the long neck turtle so he is the law totem for the Nhunggabarra people. The animals that did not break the law were turned into Aboriginal people. This is how Aboriginal people came to have all their different yurrti (totems) – from the animals who were rewarded and turned into people.

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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