Workshops saw Aboriginal elders, local families and hospital staff tell stories through Aboriginal symbolism and art techniques, sharing their own experience of living on Wonnarua country.
Over the years many people have asked me about the sand engraved textures within my artwork and enquired about my technique, often asking me how it's done. After explaining the link to country, without giving too much of the 'How To' away, I came up with my quick reply, which I hoped said it all, "It's My KFC" Meaning it's my secret herbs and spices
‘Astounding myself, I finished with a Credit and that experience totally changed my self image and gave me a positive vision for the future. From that point on I understood that I could do well at what I set my mind to. I controlled my own destiny’.
This blog series ‘Once in a lifetime Yarns’ is an opportunity for me to look back, share stories and give acknowledgement to those who have influenced my journey, shared their knowledge and mentored me along the way. I look forward to the chance to tell some of my yarns and the experiences that have evolved into the visual narratives seen in my artwork.
‘I share this story with children and youth I speak with today, as facing our fear, when doing something new and challenging’s, is how we grow and develop our potential’.
Saretta says, It’s been over 2 years in the making, starting at the 2019 Supply Nation Connect trade fair, held every year for Indigenous and First Nation businesses and a few challenges along the way like COVID-19 but My new ‘Walking on Country’ range is now available in DecoRug stores
To draw attention to these everyday artists, be they working in art centres or, like Saretta, with galleries and dealers, the Indigenous Art Code is launching a national campaign next week, "Our Art Is Our Lifeline", to encourage people to buy Indigenous art and to inform them about the most ethical means of doing so.’
On one hand Fielding is chasing those elemental joys of play that are too often forgotten when childhood days are over. On the other, she is a storyteller using ancient tools as she drags her finger through the sand to create swirls that represent the landscape, people and their connections.
The value of Aboriginal art should be owned by Aboriginal people,” Saretta says.
“The value of our culture and sharing that with others through our art mediums is something that is a great opportunity for Aboriginal people to have that economic inclusion.”