JB paints stories from his Dhuwa homeland in northeast Arnhem Land. Stories are passed on either paternally or maternally, and JB would have learnt these stories from his ancestors. The cross-hatching style is a traditional painting style of this area and can represent elements such as water, air and wind.
His paintings often feature totemic animals of the fresh waters of north east Arnhem Land.
Name: JB Fisher
Language: Marrangu
Community: Ramingining
Biography:
JB Gubalubarlulay Fisher began painting with Bula’bula Arts in the mid-1990s. Since then, JB spent a period of time working as an arts worker and artist at Maningrida Arts Centre, before returning to Ramingining where he now primarily resides.
JB specialises in bark paintings and hollow logs, often using natural bush ochres. His works most often depict stories of Honey Ancestor, Mewal and the sugarbag story as well as bush tucker and totems reflecting the cultural knowledge and traditions of his Country.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, JB says:
“I started when I was young. I’ve been painting for 30 years and I keep going. My father used to paint while I was still crawling, and I would watch him. That’s how I learned, for singing and for painting.”
JB is the songman for his clan group. His ceremonial responsibilities are significant, and he is deeply devoted to fulfilling these cultural obligations.
JB Fisher – Wangye (yams) JB Fisher paints stories from his Dhuwa homeland in north east Arnhem Land. Stories are passed on either paternally or maternally, and JB would have learnt these stories from his ancestors. Read more…
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