The concept for this mural design is storytelling through a portrait of Indigenous youth. The vision is that it will evoke a sense of threads of love and wisdom from elders to younger generations.
Kelly collaborated with Dunghutti artist Nancy Pattison on the design and concept. The young person symbolises hope and the future while in her hand she holds a praying mantis – the Dunghutti totem ‘Gurrgiyn’ representing culture, country and tradition. The Rainbow Serpent in the starry skies represents creation and the Dreamtime.
Kelly Purvis grew up in South West Rocks and maintains a strong connection with the Macleay Valley. She has travelled extensively painting large-scale murals, exhibiting her work in galleries and acquiring some impressive accolades such as winning the Bellingen Art Prize, STILL finalist and Brett Whiteley Travelling Scholarship finalist. Kelly now resides in Coffs Harbour and is devoted to sharing her creative passion and knowledge through teaching drawing and painting.