Delvene Cockatoo-Collins

Quandamooka artist

‘I am a Quandamooka artist who lives and works on Minjerribah on North Stradbroke Island.

‘Recurring themes across my artwork are the stories of my family’s lived experiences on North Stradbroke Island, the relationship to my great-great grandmother, mat making techniques, and the use of clays found across Quandamooka including the islands and mainland around Moreton Bay.

‘The future for Queensland women feels local as we refocus on our immediate environment. With a studio open daily to the public, I’m interested in the way people travel and noticed that – in light of the travel restrictions due to COVID – travelling locally, including visiting the island for the first time ever or the first time in a long time, has increased significantly. Those travelling are also moving differently, including walking and visiting Dunwich for the day. I see this as an opportunity to get to know your community and village in a different way.

‘It is in these shared moments where it is possible to interact, exchange and connect. The biggest issue for Queensland women is to know we all contribute to the wellbeing of and connectedness with each other. Small gestures can make the difference. I will be celebrating International Women’s Day like I do most days, by having a cuppa with my mum.’