This painting is about fire. How to burn the country the right way, not the wrong way. Like old people they used to burn the county right way, so we learn from them and keep country good for us and all the animals comes out of the bush
Name: Edward Badal
Language: Nyangamarta
Community: Bidyadanga
Biography:
“I was born in Broome hospital, WA in the late seventies. I went to Lagrange school, then to Nulungu College to further my education and went back to Lagrange. In the late 2000's I came interested in painting my old peoples’ Country. Me, I like doing dot painting. It's about culture, land and people. Sometimes I go out with the rangers to look after Country and sometimes it heals all of us being out on Country. The painting I do is sand dunes and claypans. Me, I use desert colours in my paintings, that represent the desert. My Mother and my Grandmother are Nyangumarta and my Father’s side is Mangala Side. Both of my Grandmothers were born in the desert Country, they both grew me up in the old camp here in Bidyadanga.”
– Edward Badal
Edward’s work has been recognised across regional Western Australia. He won Best Overall Artwork in the Shinju Art Awards two years in a row, participated in Radius 6.0 at the Courthouse Gallery+Studio in Port Hedland, and exhibited alongside Bibianna Tumbler in a two-person show at Redbill Studio+Gallery in Broome in 2025.
Alongside his art practice, Edward works as a Nyangumarta Ranger, caring for Country through traditional knowledge and land management. His time on Country informs his paintings — observing fire, water, animal tracks, claypans and spinifex — and strengthens the deep cultural connection that underpins his work.
Beyond his paintings, Edward advocates for mental health and plays an important mentoring role at the Art Centre, often encouraging younger people and family members to paint. His presence and passion for culture continue to inspire others in the community to share their own stories through painting
Untitled This artwork showcases the artist’s skillful use of colour, texture, and technique, reflecting a deep connection to their environment and culture. Each detail embodies the unique identity of Bidyadanga Artists, where the original five Read more…
Untitled This artwork showcases the artist’s skillful use of colour, texture, and technique, reflecting a deep connection to their environment and culture. Each detail embodies the unique identity of Bidyadanga Artists, where the original five Read more…
Untitled This artwork showcases the artist’s skillful use of colour, texture, and technique, reflecting a deep connection to their environment and culture. Each detail embodies the unique identity of Bidyadanga Artists, where the original five Read more…