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Sun of the Land

Every time I walk under the sun, it makes me feel happy and stronger. Sun gives light and life. 

(When I’m) trying to get away from crowded people, the drinking, going for a walk in the sun helps me escape. 

Name: Wendy Nanji


Language: Manyjilyjarra, Warnman


Community: South Hedland


Biography:

"I was born in Perth in 1993, before they moved me to Wiluna and Jigalong to be with my family. I lived in Jigalong as a young girl, grew up there with my family, and I was doing schooling there. I loved going to school. I had friends that were close with me. I moved to Punmu to know my mum’s side of the family, and stayed there with my aunties. Now I’m here in Port Hedland living my life, moving around. I love moving around and travelling. It’s good to go see different places and learn different languages that you hear when you go there.  You know when you’re on the main road, travelling and looking at the landscape, the sun setting? It’s nice, I like that feeling.

I started painting when I was in high school at Karalundi. I loved doing art when I was in high school.  My teachers loved my drawings. I like painting animals, plants, fruit that you can eat from the bush, bush foods. We learn about them with family when we go hunting.

I love to paint- I was born for it! To keep my old people proud, to look after and respect Country. Art is the loveliest thing to do- nature, colour!

And that's my story!"

Wendy Nanji, Newman, 2023


© the artist / art centre