Once upon a time an ancient tribe upon an island filled with rich plants and fish, until they were struck with an unforgiving plague of misfortune which lead the tribe to starvation, a brave and malnourished man stood up on his toes, with every little strength he had, he called upon the gods, and they answered baring but a single coconut, the milk quenched the land and sea into a tropical island once more.
Name: Nathan Dowling
Community: Kubin
Biography:
Nathan Arthur David Dowling is a proud Kwagal lagaw ya man who's currently residing in Kubin Village, Moa Island, Torres Strait Island. Dowling began his journey creating art when he was very little and from this early start he has continued to develop his unique skill and practice.
Nathan Dowling had accomplished many feats including graduating from Cairns campus James Cook University in 2019 studying Creative Arts and Media, whilst also studying a Diploma in Community Services, Leadership and Disability Support. Dowling thrives in helping others. He believes its is a way to express his undying love for the community as he was taught by his time within the Torres Strait Islands.
2021 Nathan Dowling travelled to The Sunshine Coast where he expanded his artistic skills and expertise experimenting amongst the local Aboriginal people residing there and worked on a Yacht where Indigenous people can express their culture through 2 hour cruises through the Mooloolaba Canals. That is where Dowling refined his art practices and eventually starting selling art pieces with Saltwater Eco Tours.
In 2025 Nathan Dowling has returned to Kubin Village to connect with the community and to develop his creative practice.
Basket Art Centre notes: The basket is made of natural raffia and sea chord. It is made using a traditional ‘one twist’ method. The dyes are commercial and colour fast.
Art Centre notes: The bag is made of natural raffia, sea cord and shells. It is made using a traditional ‘one twist’ method. The dyes are commercial and colour fast. The shells are used for Read more…
Art Centre notes: The bag is made of natural raffia, sea cord and shells. It is made using a traditional ‘one twist’ method. The dyes are commercial and colour fast. The shells are used for Read more…