Australia’s Indigenous artists are among the most talented storytellers in the world — weaving thousands of years of culture, tradition, and connection to Country into every artwork. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of featuring some incredible First Nations creatives. Here’s a look at 5 of our favourite Indigenous artists who continue to rise in their careers.
Whether you’re searching for a statement artwork for your home or you simply love discovering new artistic talent, find one to love in our round up.
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1. Leah Cummins
A proud Mayi woman from North-West Queensland, Leah Cummins uses her art to share stories of her Country, language, and heritage. Her vibrant works are filled with movement and joy, often blending traditional symbolism with a modern aesthetic. Leah’s paintings feel alive — each one an invitation to connect with culture in a deeply personal way.
The stories I paint show strength for women and children. They show my love of the land and for all my people. My art is both traditional and contemporary. I use storytelling in every art piece to educate and teach everyone about my people’s culture.
Discover Leah’s work
2. Karen Lee Mungarrja
Putting her own abstract interpretation on Aboriginal iconography, Karen takes a ‘journey of discovery’ to navigate her connection to culture and explore concepts of memory.
Using contemporary representations of Aboriginal iconography such as the songlines (the ‘dreaming’ track which maps landscape) as visual and emotional cues, my work aims to evoke in the viewer a response to the notion of memory.
Karen Lee Mungarrja is a Warlpiri, Luritja and Kokatha woman whose intricate works reflect her deep cultural knowledge. Her art draws on sacred stories and Dreaming, translating them into stunning visual narratives. Karen also brings her designs to textiles and homewares, offering new ways to experience and appreciate her culture.
See more of Karen Lee Mungarrja’s art
3. Goompi
From the Quandamooka Country of North Stradbroke Island, Goompi is a master of dot painting whose works honour the traditional methods of his ancestors while incorporating his own contemporary style. His detailed compositions often depict the movement of water, seasonal changes, and the deep connections between people and nature.
When it comes to creating a brand new piece of work, I paint the background then sit, wait and stare at the blank canvas thinking of passed down stories and knowledge.
Read our feature on Goompi
4. Domica Hill
Domica’s contemporary Aboriginal art blends traditional style with modern aesthetic. She turned to art as a form of healing after losing her first daughter. What began as a therapeutic journey for herself quickly became a powerful bridge, allowing her story to connect with others.
When people engage with artwork that carries deep meaning and find elements within it that reflect their own experiences, it creates something truly special.
Read Domica’s story
5. Lou Martin
Lou Martin, a Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yuin woman, creates stunning, colourful artworks that speak of resilience, history, and connection. Hailing from a family of creatives and a painter of almost 30 years, it’s only in recent years that Lou shared her artwork with the world. She’s been making up for lost time, quickly signing as an artist with Greenhouse Interiors and collaborating with major brands like Maxwell & Williams.
Dot work and traditional symbols are elements from our culture used to tell stories and as a means of explanation. However I consider myself to be a contemporary Aboriginal artist. There’s something calming and healing about the softer feel of muted tones. In Wiradjuri country, we’re bush, red earth and river people.
Discover Lou’s story
These artists represent just a small glimpse of the incredible First Nations talent across Australia. We’ll continue to celebrate new and emerging talent in our artist spotlight stories. You can support their work in big and small ways, from purchasing their art to following them on social media and sharing their stories. If you know of any fab artists we should feature, drop us a comment below!
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