The artist is a Tasmanian Aboriginal who has lived in Launceston for over 50 years and has strong ties to Country and deep connections to gathering materials along Kanamaluka/Tamar River.

Their works are held in major national collections.

Kanamaluka Kanalaritja evolved from the artist’s traditional cultural practice of shell necklace making. The shape reflects the necklace ready to be worn, using colour and textures to show the range of shells used in contemporary practice.

In Palawa tradition, shell necklaces are a ceremonial object, traditionally gifted to visitors to the region to mark arrivals and departures. They embody generosity, welcome and reciprocity.

This work is connected to the Kanamaluka (Tamar River), where Aboriginal women have gathered marine shells for many generations. As shell populations decline due to coastal disruption, the artist collects with a deep ecological conscience to ensure necklace-making remains sustainable.

Yes, the artist sought written approval from the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre (TAC) language representative, as required by TAC's policy and protocol for use of palawa kani Aboriginal Language.