In Dijan Mela Kantri (This Is Our Country), four artists from Ngukurr, South-East Arnhem Land, bring to life stories of their home in bold colour. 

Ngukurr, a small community in South-East Arnhem land, provides the vibrant backdrop and inspiration for each of the artist’s works. In Jill Daniels Kauboi and Kaugel (cowboy and cowgirl) stories, we journey alongside them across vibrant landscapes surrounding Ngukurr to muster cattle and to visit the Rodeo, resting beneath the stars along the way.

In her paintings, Karen Rogers shares stories of camping and fishing, the whole family travelling to the billabong in the iconic Troopy. Told in her distinctive graphic style and narrated in Kriol, Karen leads us through these cherished memories that have brought her happiness (even when the Troopy breaks down).

Marlene Andrews’ emotive paintings read like postcards from the region, portraying its people, birds and flora through a tender, sentimental lens. Similarly, Luke Djalgarrarra’s sculptures celebrate the birds of the region, accentuating their distinctive features through patterned bodies adorned with delicate linework and floral motifs. Together, these works evoke the rich colours and natural beauty found along the banks of the Roper River.

Telling stories old and new, these works reflect each artist’s deep connection with their home of Ngukurr, and their desire to share what they love about it with us.