Preserving his Aboriginal
culture through art
The Desert Collection
“These specific artworks tell of our people’s lifestyle, survival, and sustainability in some of the world’s harshest Desert country in Central Australia. Through these pieces, I share my Elders’ knowledge about healing only with their permission. We teach our young people stories through art, like cultural obligations of looking after country and kin. These skills, passed on for generations, are to be passed on forever "
Wayne Davis
Wayne was born and raised in Darwin, NT. As a young man, he fulfilled his dream of becoming a parks and wildlife officer at Kakadu National Park, where he cared for sacred lands and learned directly from senior traditional owners about ancient rock art.
From the desert to the sea – introducing Wayne's diverse artistic inspirations
As a kwetungurlu, or "Cultural Lore Man" Wayne holds cultural authority and knowledge of his people's lands. In 1989, this role was officially confirmed, solidifying his identity and heritage to Kaytej country near Alice Springs.
In addition to his duties as a ranger and cultural authority, Wayne spent over seven years studying traditional healing under his grandfather, Nangari-Jimmy. Drawing from this knowledge, Wayne incorporates spiritual healing practices into his artwork, which often depicts sacred stories and symbols in a contemporary way.
Wayne Davis -
A Brief Biography
Feeling a deep connection to his own ancestral lands and a calling to preserve his cultural practices, Wayne began painting his own stories, integrating his cultural obligations with contemporary art. Having participated in cultural lore ceremonies from a young age and ensuring this knowledge was passed to his son, Wayne has established himself as a respected Elder within his community.
The Saltwater Collection
“I was inspired to do my saltwater artwork when living by the sea in the NT, after being taught the stories from the traditional owners about the animals, colours and symbols that reflect our life and movement. I was blessed to work closely with Elders from the Top End of Australia. This allowed me to learn about healing, and cultural connections to saltwater animals, the sea, land and waterways "
Wayne Davis
