Melissa Ladkin "Nukang Kokei" (Women's Weaving) #2

122 x 122 cms, Ochre pigments on Linen Canvas. For contemporary First Nation's artist Melissa Ladkin, the earth is the very substance of her art. Using pigments ground from sacred ochre rocks. Ladkin is a proud descendent of the Awabakal/Wonnarua/Bundjalung peoples and has lived and worked on Bundjalung Jugun for over 18 years with Country, community & conservation. Her application of ancient ochre on to canvas is an act of deep reverence for country. “Ochres are living, sentient beings, filled with energy and spirit, that hold a knowing that is learned over deep time. I hope they resonate with your own connection to country and how you walk upon it.” - Melissa Ladkin