This month, five masterpieces from the Parliament of NSW Collection have been revealed for display on the Reconciliation Wall.
Roo Hunting by Elaine Russell
Elaine Russell (1941–2017) was a Kamilaroi artist who studied visual arts at Eora, TAFE NSW, in Chippendale, Sydney.
Russell began her artistic career at the age of 52 and was involved in numerous group shows, including the 2004 'Message Sticks' exhibition at the Sydney Opera House. She was also the author and illustrator of two children's books; 'A is for Aunty' and 'The Shack that Dad Built'.
This artwork was acquired by the Parliament of New South Wales from Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative circa 2003.
Despite Her Race She Was A Winner by Blak Douglas
Blak Douglas, born Adam Douglas Hill, is an artist of Dhungatti, English, German, Irish and Scottish heritage. His moniker 'Blak Douglas' came about in 2014 to honour his dominant genealogies.
Douglas graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Sydney Nepean in 1994. He is trained in illustration and photography, and has become self-practiced in painting, stating that his style is influenced by politics and social justice. Douglas is also a classically trained Yidaki player and has performed nationally and internationally.
This artwork was acquired by the Parliament of New South Wales circa 2005.
Defending Country by Leanne Tobin
Leanne Tobin is a multidisciplinary artist of Irish, English and Aboriginal heritage, descending from the Dharug Nation.
Tobin has completed two tertiary degrees, has been involved in numerous group exhibitions and won several awards.
A pale-skinned woman holding a shield is in the foreground of 'Defending Country'. The woman's ancestors surround her. The group is protesting the selling and destruction of country. The artwork emphasises that the colour of the traditional people’s skin may vary, but the woman’s story and her connection to country continue to run deep.
This artwork won the Parliament of New South Wales Aboriginal Art Prize in 2011.
Sydney Cove by Debra Beale
Debra Beale is a Sydney-based artist and designer maker who comes from the Palawa, Yorta Yorta, Gamilaraay and Wonnarua Nations.
'Sydney Cove' tells a narrative of Beale's Aboriginal cultural practices, focusing on cultural heritage, family and community. It is a combination of Women’s Business, with a process of acknowledging the past and moving forward to the future. A healing journey celebrating with song, dance and laughter.
This artwork was acquired by the Parliament of New South Wales from Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative in 2024.
Mission Series 2 by Roy Kennedy
Roy Kennedy (1932 – 2021) was a Wiradjuri artist. He was born on the Police Paddock Mission Darlington Point, near Griffith, New South Wales.
Kennedy studied at Eora, TAFE NSW, in Chippendale, Sydney. His works are now held in the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian National Maritime Museum.
In 'Mission Series 2', Kennedy draws upon his memories of the Warangesha Mission to provide an Aboriginal perceptive of how First Nations people were treated on the missions.
This artwork won the Parliament of New South Wales Indigenous Art Prize in 2009.
