Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this work contains images and names of people who have died.
This work includes references to massacres and images which some people may find challenging and disturbing. The views and statements provided by the artists are theirs alone. Viewer discretion is recommended
Mark Nodea, Richard Thomas, Owen Thomas and Peter Thomas
From massacres to medals – a story of redemption and recognition
HIGHLY COMMENDED
2023–2024
ochre (sourced locally from Gija Country) on three canvas boards
60 x 120 cm, 60 x 100 cm, 60 x 100 cm (each); 180 x 120 cm (overall)
This is a story of four extraordinary Gija men from the remote community of Warmun, in the east Kimberley region of Western Australia. These strong cultural lawmen, veterans and artists are among the inspiring Spirits of Nackeroo and nine other Gija men who served in Kimberley Squadron of NORFORCE (North-West Mobile Force).
This artwork was inspired by a visit to the Australian War Memorial in late August 2023 at the invitation of Mr Keith Payne VC AM, a close friend of these veterans during and after their military service in Kimberley Squadron, and a regular visitor to Gija country.
During this visit, they became aware of the Napier Waller Art Prize on a tour of the Memorial with Indigenous Liaison Officer, Mr Michael Bell. That tour inspired the artwork, which is a collaboration between Mark Nodea and the three Thomas brothers: Richard, Owen and Peter.
Traditionally painted with natural ochre locally sourced from Gija country, it presents a humbling transformative journey. Starting from some of the worst massacres known, to medals pinned on these men’s chests, with the help of two great friends of the Gija people: Major Mac Jensen OAM RFD JP and Mr Keith Payne VC AM.