New Horizons

Emerging Artists from Gamilaroi Country

This exhibition marks the debut of five emerging artists, each presenting their strongest works across painting, mixed media, and carving. With varied approaches to their mediums, the artists offer a diverse exploration of form, texture, and concept, highlighting the depth and breadth of their individual practices, and providing insight into their artistic development.

Curators: Elizabeth Van Gavel
Artists: Janice Giffin, David (Crockett) Craigie, Glenda Nicholls, George See & Chris Roberts
Opening:
Thursday 31 July 6pm
Exhibition:
1 August–13 September 2025
Where:
BAMM Gallery
FREE

Biographies

Janice (Genus) Giffin is a painter who creates layered works full of colour and texture, reflecting her deep connection to the environment around her. Based in Weemelah, near the Queensland border, her art offers a balance between calm and momentum. Through her paintings, especially her series featuring blue trees, Janice explores themes of mental health, personal struggle, and connection to nature. Her work emphasizes the importance of preserving the earth and checking in on those who might be struggling emotionally.

David (Crockett) Craigie was born in Moree in 1957, has been deeply influenced by his community and heritage. With a background in Aboriginal Arts and Cultural Practices, David’s work features earthy tones and often centers on the Nhurray (black snake), his totem. His artwork, which spans across Australia and beyond, is complemented by his mentorship of young artists at Moree TAFE and his role as a tour guide. His paintings reflect his personal connection to his culture and the animals that represent it.

Glenda Nicholls, originally from Baradine and connected to both the Pilliga and Moree, expresses her family’s stories through art. Her experiences growing up in various Australian locations, particularly along the river, deeply influence her work. Glenda’s art is a way of preserving and sharing the cultural knowledge passed down from her ancestors. Through her practice, she aims to teach younger generations the importance of connecting to land, animals, and the traditions that shape their community.

George See from Dubbo, NSW, began his art journey in 2003 with wood carving before discovering the powerful expression of painting. His work tells stories passed down by his family, as well as his own life experiences, with a focus on simple subject matter and vibrant colours. George’s paintings cover themes like childhood memories, daily life, and traditional practices, and he is committed to documenting his life for future generations. He believes in the importance of preserving traditional Aboriginal stories and connecting younger generations to their cultural roots.

Born in 1969 in Moree, Chris Roberts has spent his life surrounded by his large family and the landscapes of his hometown. After working on the land, Chris turned to art, developing his skills in both painting and sculpture, particularly wood carving. Drawing inspiration from his local environment, his works often feature wildlife like fish and lizards, as well as representations of Aboriginal people in both traditional and contemporary contexts. Chris holds a Certificate IV in Aboriginal Arts and Cultural Practices and a Diploma of Visual Arts, and his work has been showcased at the Moree Art Gallery and Boomalli, Sydney.