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Bush Medicine

“This is a painting about bush medicine. It’s been boiled up. You boil it up and it turns into a burgundy sort of colour. Smells like eucalyptus. It is used for sores, rash, any skin condition. It’s a white gum tree.”
– Georgina Walbidi

This artwork honours the plants and practices of bush medicine — the healing Country provides, the old-people’s knowledge, and the living connection between land and body.

The artist reflects on the medicines found across Country: bark that soothes, leaves for infusions, roots dug after the rains, plants that grow in shade, and wood burnt down to ash for healing. These works often come from memories of learning and walking with elders — watching, smelling, collecting, and preparing medicine with care.

It reminds us that caring for Country is caring for ourselves. Gathering medicine is a cultural act — a moment of respect, listening, and moving gently on Country. This knowledge has been passed down across generations and must continue to be held, practised, and shared.

The painting invites the viewer into gratitude — for the plants, for the Country, for the knowledge keepers, and for the ongoing practice of looking after all life