Mulunjali artist Nicholas Currie, currently completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) at the University of Melbourne, specialises in painting and installation, with his work deeply connected to the experiences of his community.
"A lot of my practice comes from the experiences I share with my friends and family," he said.
"I create art that reflects my surroundings and the spaces I am in.
"I wouldn't be here without the support and knowledge from my family, both chosen and blood."
He credits his Nan, a health officer who ran painting and culture classes in her community, as a key influence in his early artistic development.
"My Nan was a health officer in her community and ran painting and culture classes," he said.
"I've always loved painting, and I kept at it because of that early inspiration.
"Im not the best painter, but I enjoy it."
Throughout his studies, Mr Currie has evolved his practice, describing a shift in his approach.
"I'm more poised with my looseness now" he said.
"I feel less like I'm scrambling and more like I'm dancing when I create.
"The actions I take are intuitive, but I do them with confidence, not tentativeness."
His process has become more refined, with reading and research now a key part of his practice.
"I'm reading much more and gathering information to reference in my work," he notes.
A highlight of his time at the university has been the opportunity to access spaces like workshops and libraries, which many in his community do not have.
"Many of my mob don't have access to these opportunities, so I'm extremely grateful to be in these spaces."
Mr Currie encourages future students to take their time and remain grounded.
"You'll learn a lot, so take your time. It's a quick year in terms of what you need to accomplish," he said.
"Remember who you are and where you come from.
"Art explains things that can't be said. It is the tool of the revolution, and it will live forever."
His work can be seen at the 2024 VCA Art Grad Show, running from 22–28 November at the University of Melbourne Southbank campus, open daily from 11am–5pm.
