Artists
Debbie Callaghan | Mabel Dungay | Bonny FoleyBrennan
Lila Lawrence | Noel Lonesborough | Anthony Moore
Russell Ping | Steven Russell | Kelli Ryan | Phyllis Stewart
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Kelli Ryan |
I come from Cobbitty NSW and grew up with the land as part of me. I am the eldest of 5 children. My father works as a Plumber and a backyard philosopher. My mother studied to be a Naturopath and massage therapist, sadly my mother passed away in 1998 aged 43. Unbeknown to my parents my upbringing was very similar to the values of Aboriginal culture. I was taught a respect for the land and people and a sense of spirituality that had no reference to traditional religions. I feel my family values now allow me to share the friendships of this Aboriginal community in Gerringong.
I trained as a practicing artist in the mediums of Drawing, Photography and Sculpture. I have exhibited locally and internationally and continue to develop my art practice. In 1995 I received an OAM for showing Leadership to Youth of Australia whilst on board sailing The Young Endeavour from Sydney to Brisbane. I then received a scholarship from The Australia British Society to sail on board English Tall ship vessels in The Canary Islands. From my sailing experience I learnt invaluable skills about Team management.
As a practicing artist and teacher with TAFE for the past 12 years I have been able to have a unique experience with the local Aboriginal community. Through building skills and an awareness of the visual world our dream of “Boolarng Nangamai” has become a bridge for all communities to gather and celebrate culture with creativity.
I believe my vision and ability to teach others how to believe in themselves has allowed this unique place and experience to come about. Now Aboriginal Culture has a place to practice traditions and ensure they are not lost and that they are passed onto other communities and generation to respect and value.
Artwork samples
