Jasmine (she/her) cherishes her family, history and cultural identity, these connections bring her artwork to life. As a proud Barkindji, Malyangapa woman with close European immigrant lineage, Jasmine has a unique cultural perspective that enriches her ability to create original and captivating pieces. You may not know it, but you have probably seen her work before. She’s been transforming Newcastle one mural at a time.

Jasmine is quite the ‘Renaissance (wo)man’. Honouring the people who came before her has fired a passion to explore many methods and mediums - including a soft sculpture piece dedicated to the land her peoples live on.

Jasmine: I feel so lucky to do what I do; I didn’t ever expect this to be a career. I still find it hard to even call myself an artist because the idea of art institutions is so daunting and always seemed so unattainable.

Nicole: Can you share with me the meaning behind this piece?

Empty Water Vessels, represents the deteriorating ecology of the Darling River in a time of drought. Made with a wire frame and wool, purposefully not using cotton due to the negative impact cotton farming has on water supply. The base has then been left as a bare to reflect the skeleton of what once was a thriving river. Then together with community we sat and wove around wire fish, bringing them back to life with bright beautiful colours.