Lola Greeno is a Tasmanian Aboriginal artist with a long-standing connection to Launceston, where she has lived for more than 50 years. Her work is informed by deep cultural knowledge and strong connections to Country, including the gathering of natural materials along Kanamaluka/Tamar River. Her artworks are held in major national collections across Australia.

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.