Last year, an unexpected invitation from Canva turned into a profound journey back to my roots. I embarked on a series titled "Thugarri Barna - Strong Men on Country," capturing the essence of cultural knowledge and male bonding experiences within my community. When Yamaji men come together on country, especially on their ancestral lands, to yarn and share, it invites a safe and healthy way of healing together, building strength and resilience to navigate everyday life within colonial spaces like small rural towns. This intergenerational togetherness fosters strong, healthy male role models, striving for the best for their families and community members. The urgency of this focus has grown from a heartbreaking trend within my circles. Over the last two decades, I've seen a devastating number of friends and family members take their own lives, with losses occurring every year. This series is not just an artistic endeavor but a crucial part of a broader mission to provide a space for men to connect, share, and strengthen each other against the isolating struggles that can lead to such tragedies. With a hired van and camera in hand, we crafted stories and preserved traditions through my lens. These images of Yamaji men on country are more than just visual art; they are a celebration of heritage, a dialogue for change, confronting visual biases, and challenging misconceptions about Aboriginal people. However, upon completing the series in Thallirang, some family members’ partners raised concerns about the focus on men. This criticism has sparked a dialogue about inclusivity and the representation of women in my future projects—a valid point that I take to heart as I strive to represent all facets of my community. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity from Canva, which allowed me to grow professionally and personally, contributing visually to our ongoing narrative. Every image is a testament to who we are and a reminder of the growth still ahead. #CulturalHeritage #PhotographyJourney #aboriginalculture
Images for @canva Represents with help as photographer assistant @wan.ga_yanda @jessepickett_2
