Jamii-Leah Gray is a contemporary Aboriginal artist living in The Riverland, South Australia. Her artwork deeply explores themes related to hunting and gathering, showcasing elements like waterholes, bush fruits, land lines, and native wildlife. Drawing inspiration from the indigenous flora, fauna, and the natural environment around her, her designs also embody stories passed down through generations from her elders. Jamii-Leah's mother Cassandra Gray comes from the western part of South Australia and is associated with the Wirangu and Kokatha Aboriginal groups, while her father lives near the Murray River in the heart of the Riverland and belongs to the Ngarrindjeri, Erawirung, and Maraura Aboriginal groups.
“Wai, my name is Jamii-Leah Gray and I am the owner of Yadu Arts. I am a 26 year old Wirangu/Kokatha, and Ngarrindjeri woman. I was born in Berri, SA and I grew up in Ceduna and in The Riverland, South Australia.
Growing up my childhood was based around art if it meant carving into wood, drawing on paper or in the sand and creating something big or small.
My family are artists right up from my grandparents down to the youngest generation. Watching my parents paint inspired to me to put a brush in my hand.
Art is my passion and I love to create something new for everyone to see. I hope you loved my artworks as much as I loved painting them.”
Ceduna Arts acts as a vibrant art center where family members come together to craft and sell their artistic works. Throughout the last decade, many have showcased their skills in numerous exhibitions. Among the prominent artists in her family are Janine Gray, Cassandra Gray, Sherrie Jones, Jaylene Ware, Collette Gray and Kelly Taylor-Ware and family.
ARTWORKS
- Winner FRRHSA First Nations Acquisitive Art Competition 2024
- Designed uniform for Riverland United, SA Junior Netball Carnival 2023
- Sold Artwork for Wesley Mission 2021