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This painting depicts Luther Cora, a traditional dancer, performer, educator and leader of the Yugambeh language group, from the East Coast of Australia. Luther’s face paint symbolises his totem, “Bullum” – meaning Red Tailed Black Cockatoo – given to him by Yugambeh elders.

As a child, Luther travelled from the Gold Coast to North Queensland and Canberra to learn his ancestor’s traditional stories and dance before returning home to perform with his brothers. Now a father, Luther and his children perform together, each embodying past generations through wearing traditional garments and, painted with ochre, representing their individual animal totems.

Luther’s love of the performing arts and Indigenous culture inspires his teaching and strengthens his desire to promote awareness about his cultural heritage. In addition to his performing life, Luther expresses his passion for country, family and culture through painting and photography.

‘I think Australia is more open to Aboriginal people, their history and culture especially in the education sector. We have a long way to go as Australians but the only way forward is together.’ Luther Cora

Finalist for the Georges River Art Prize 2017