Sandy is a proud Dunghutti, Birpai and Gumbaynggir artist born and raised on Birpai Country, and she lives and works in Port Macquarie, on the NSW Mid North Coast. The youngest of four siblings, Sandy developed her passion and talent for creating artwork at a young age, being inspired and influenced by her mother’s arts practice.
As a child, Sandy spent a lot of time visiting local beaches, mountains and rivers with her family, and she would collect natural materials from the bush and coast. As a teenager, Sandy used art to explore her Aboriginal heritage and share stories from her family.
Between 2021 and 2023, Sandy completed four Aboriginal Cultural Arts Certificates through Tafe NSW, under the mentorship of Head Teacher, Angela Marr. Sandy creates beautiful contemporary artworks incorporating traditional Aboriginal dotting, line work and symbolism. Her fresh, modern paintings feature rich colours and different textures inspired by local native bushland and waterways.
Sandy likes to share stories from the past and present, and she explores a range of themes including spirituality, personal growth, womanhood, cultural teachings, family history and nature.
“Art is an outlet for me to express my ideas, emotions and perspectives. It is also a celebration of my culture and wellbeing. It has helped with my personal growth, mindfulness and inner peace,” Sandy said. “I feel art helps people to relate to and better understand one another, giving each of us a greater sense of belonging and self.”
Since 2022, Sandy’s artwork has been showcased in several local and regional art exhibitions, she’s worked as an artist with various community groups and organisations, and she’s participated in a number of public art projects.
