Why is Locker Room Talk important to you?
I'd like to shift the societal perceptions and stereotypical ideas of what an Aboriginal woman should look like. I hope to capture your attention through my art and spark those difficult conversations around the true history of our nation. I also want to encourage other fair skinned, blue-eyed, Aboriginal women (and men) to proudly own their heritage and identity. After all, being Aboriginal isn't defined by the colour of your skin, it's a spiritual feeling, a knowing in your heart.
If you had the chance, what’s something you’d like to tell your 16 year-old self?
Be proud of who you are and where you've come from.
How does your job fit into your life - does it feel like a 9-5, or maybe it’s more of a calling?
At the age of 34 I discovered my "calling." It came so unexpectedly and evolved so organically. I feel blessed every day to have this gift and be guided by my ancestors. It is my honour to give them a voice and share the beauty held within our land and seas through my art.
Can you talk us through one of the challenges you’ve faced during your career?
I've certainly experienced my fair share of colourism and reverse racism. My Aboriginality is often questioned and there's been numerous times I've felt like I've had to justify myself simply because my skin isn't black. It's a horrible feeling to have your identity questioned and be wrongly accused of cultural appropriation. It's mind-blowing how many people I've had attack me without having done their research prior. I feel it's my life's purpose to change the notion that a person's cultural background is based solely on their appearance.
