This painting honours Uncle Mickey O’Brien, Senior Kaurna Elder, whose teachings about Adelaide’s landscape have shaped my understanding of heritage and identity.

The textured background subtly weaves in the emu and kangaroo, symbols of the Kaurna people’s enduring connection to Country.

Depicting Uncle Mickey in traditional attire, carrying tools essential for survival, the piece invites reflection on the deep cultural ties between people and place. Inspired by his storytelling, this work highlights the significance of the Adelaide Park Lands as a living cultural landscape.

Rooted in Kaurna maps and oral traditions, it celebrates the passing of knowledge across generations, fostering respect for Indigenous wisdom.

To honour this, Uncle Mickey has donated Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo feathers, a traditional hand-signed flag, and a Kaurna Country pin, which will accompany the painting’s buyer.

Oil on cotton canvas 180 × 92cm