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Stories and Flames
Melinda Solomon
To me, this year’s NAIDOC theme, Keep the Fire Burning, means carrying on the flame of our culture by passing on the stories of our elders.
I made the shape of this piece a circle to symbolize a meeting place. The centre of the circle represents my grandparents as well as Uncle and Aunties from far North Queensland. When they used to catch-up, they would all come together for a cuppa. My Nan and Aunties would have a dilly bag, each carrying a different item, whether that be tea, milk, jam, or damper. Meanwhile, my Pop and Uncles would light the fire for them before going to the pub for a beer. Hanging from the centrepiece of this artwork are mini dilly bags, representing my nan and Aunties and they sense of community these small catchups, fostered.
All these stories, we must pass onto our children, so that we can Keep the Fire Burning.
Medium: Cotton 100%
Artwork Size: 49 x 49cm
Catalogue No: 352-24
$700.00
Out of stock
About the Artist
Melinda Solomon
Melinda Solomon is a proud Aboriginal woman of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji and Girramay peoples of Far North Queensland. A passionate visual artist, Melinda expresses her deep cultural connection through a diverse range of mediums and vibrant colours.
Her work is inspired by family stories and a profound connection to Country - from lush rainforests and bushlands to rivers, oceans, and the native animals that inhabit these landscapes. By blending traditional cultural symbols with intricate contemporary designs, Melinda creates bold and colourful artworks that celebrate her identity and the natural world around her.
Melinda’s work has been featured by the Koorie Heritage Trust and the Victorian First Peoples Art and Design Fair.
She is also the founder of Baljil Art, a creative business based in Victoria where she sells art prints, handmade jewellery, and woven baskets. You can find Baljil Art at various festivals and markets, including Share the Spirit, NAIDOC Week events, and the Finders Keepers Market.
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