Carried Close #2

This artwork was created during my Artist in Residence at Goolugatup Heathcote. It was first exhibited in my solo show What Mothers Carry.
Yonga (Kangaroo) is painted with paperbark and oil paint on wood. The work explores the gentle strength and nurturing nature of animals — in particular the way the yonga carries her joey close in her pouch, mirroring the intimate bond between human mothers and their children.
Through this piece, I reflect on motherhood as a universal act of protection, closeness, and quiet resilience found across species and Country.

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Mother, visionary, artist—Emily thrives in the dedication to her vocation as a 4th-generation,
multi-disciplinary creator. Her award-winning work, from oils on canvas to resin on burnt
timber, weaving, and ephemeral art, explores themes of memory, natural order, and
motherhood.
Emily’s art exists at the intersection of tradition and innovation, paying homage to cultural
knowledge while expanding the horizons of contemporary Indigenous art. Continuing a
legacy where hands have woven, painted, and carved stories, Emily's work celebrates her
ancestors' resilience.
A leader in both contemporary art and community, Emily
strives to create generational change, promote cohesion and conscious action—and make
beautiful things—for the benefit of those that lie forever in her heart of hearts: her children.