Ngaoara Fellowship Winner Announced

Published on 16 December 2024

Printmaker and painter, Aaron William Kennedy has been named the winner of the Ngaoara Fellowship to display his artwork at the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery in 2026.

Creatures of the South Coast will promote South Coast art and culture to local and broader arts community. Featuring a series of lino prints representing significant local animals, Aaron will work with Elders and the community to bring knowledge of South Coast Country to the exhibition showcasing a strong and thriving culture. Aaron’s work is recognized for its striking representations of Country, combining traditional values and methods with contemporary technologies. Aaron will use his practice to engage audiences and celebrate saltwater Country.

“I am interested in exhibiting at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery to engage more deeply with my grandfather's Country. Spending time on Country will allow me to consult with my Elders, such as Uncle Noel Butler, on Budawang Country, and learn more about mark-making and cultural stories" Aaron Kennedy explained. "My connection to the Shoalhaven is through my grandfather, and my great grandmother who were born and raised at Jerrinja. This fellowship will allow me to express my connection to the South Coast and increase my sense of belonging on Country”.

Aaron William Kennedy is a proud Jerrinja and Djirringanj, Yuin man from the Yuin Nation. Born and raised in Sydney, NSW. Finishing a BFA with Honours at UNSW Art and Design, he is majoring in Printmaking and Painting. Inspired by a school-based immersion program in Yulara, NT, exposure to Central Desert art is what started his journey in the arts. Aaron continues to travel to the NSW South Coast to learn from Country and his Yuin Elders. He uses knowledge and observation of landscapes, artworks, and patterns, which connects to his Country. He interweaves his passion for culture with his art.