ELVERINA JOHNSON | 'Mayi' | 2026 | Painted buoy using acrylic paint

“This series of painted buoys tells stories from my childhood growing up in Yarrabah. Each buoy holds a different memory of family, being on Country and the many things I've learned growing up.

Growing up, we spent most of our time on Country. We went fishing at Weembal, camped by the beach, lots of fishing, lots of seafood, sat around campfires and learnt from our Elders. We made our own fun, listened to stories, shared knowledge and spent time together.

These works reflect the places, people and memories that stay with me. They celebrate connection to family, culture and the land and sea that have always provided for us. Through these works I share some of those stories and pass on the memories of Growing up on Country, in Yarrabah.”

ELVERINA JOHNSON | 'Mayi' | 2026 | Painted buoy using acrylic paint | H 41cm x W 114 cm diameter mm