About the Design

The concept behind 'River Snake' is a testament to the Martuwarra River as the design visually and culturally represents the spiritual values Nyikina people hold towards the river. The Martuwarra is a sacred and precious body of life that carves its way throughout all corners of the Kimberley, providing habitat to our biodiversity and remains critical for our cultural practices and future. The river breaths life into us, it feeds us and teaches us to connect and love our land, slitering its way through multiple language groups and terrains. The sculpture aims to feature our relationship with the river as the snake represents our traditional belief systems being the serpent while emphasising its value and importance.

About the Artist

Kalinda Palmer (Gal) is a proud Nyikina and Jabbirr Jabbirr multidisciplinary artist, storyteller, content creator, producer and emerging filmmaker from the Kimberley. My commitment to sharing and empowering our narratives manifests in various forms, including ceramics, watercolours, photography, and short films. My work often explores themes of environmentalism, decolonization, and experimental expression, as I strive for cultural sustainability. Throughout the years, I have been fortunate to showcase my art across Melbourne’s vibrant landscape, including prominent venues like Flinders Street Station and Federation Square during the YIRRAMBOI First Nations Festival. While I take pride in my identity as a solo artist, I have also successfully contributed to numerous local, national, and international programs, productions, cultural festivals, and events in my role as a producer. My experience in the arts and production has equipped me with a diverse skill set to manage projects of all sizes across various artistic genres. Recently, I have embarked on an exciting journey in the film industry, taking on the role of creative producer for "Re-imaging Our Futures," a project commissioned by Screen Australia and Network 10. This short documentary highlights Derby and celebrates the cultural significance of birthing and motherhood. I am deeply motivated by my profound love and respect for my community, land, and future. My goal is not only to represent myself but also to honour the resilience and history of those who came before us. While my professional accomplishments are significant, my role as a mother has encouraged me to explore the beauty of connecting with my country, practising my culture and language, and, most importantly, giving back to my community graciously.