Gavin Wanganeen

"When I paint it brings me back to my culture, my mum was part of the stolen generation herself and taken from her parents when she was a young girl.  To learn all about that is really powerful stuff."

“My work has a fresh and modern approach while keeping strong links to my cultural past. I am keen to take my work to a wider audience.” GAVIN WANGANEEN

Former AFL legend, Brownlow Medalist and contemporary Indigenous artist, Gavin Wanganeen, is a descendent of the Kokatha Mula people.  Kokatha people have a strong connection to country, culture and hold the Tjukupa (Lore) and caring for country.  The Kokatha lands are located in the Central/South Western desert in South Australia.

Growing up, Gavin spent time on the State’s West Coast where his maternal great grandfather, Dick Davey was a respected leader of both the people of Koonibba Mission, and the general community.  Dick Davey continues to inspire and influence Gavin’s painting, and his connection to culture.

"Football has given me some wonderful opportunities in my life, a strong sense of achievement and an understanding that role models can make a difference to people's lives. I believe Indigenous kids need a range of role models – some in sport but also, teachers, business leaders, nurses, researchers and artists.”

Gavin Wanganeen is an important and inspiring role model within the Indigenous community due to his successful sporting career and transition to working artist.

Gavin predominately paints about the stars, and the night sky although is looking to further explore his ancestral links, relationships and story through his artwork.  Star Dreaming, is a view of the night sky from above.  Imagine you are situated at the highest point in the universe, looking down through the stars, to country.

Solo Exhibitions

2017               
'Gavin Wanganeen: exhibition of works', Pullman Ritz Carlton, Shanghai China
'Gavin Wanganeen: The Power of Four', The Henry Austin, Adelaide SA

2016               
'Gavin Wanganeen: Shooting Star Kilipi Punkanai', Koori Heritage Trust, Melbourne, Federation Square
'Gavin Wanganeen: solo exhibition', Willunga Gallery, held at Hardy’s Tintara Winery, McLaren Vale SA

Group exhibtions

2017           
'Our Mob exhibition & Tarnanthi Art Fair', Tarnanthi Festival of Contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art
'Gavin Wanganeen: Renewal SA Christmas Tree Riverbank project', Public Art Installation, North Terrace

2015
'Our Mob Exhibition: Port Augusta', Tarnanthi Festival of Contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art

Awards

2017          
Victor Harbour Rotary Art Fair, Highly Commended; Star Dreaming, Grey