Guri: Bungan! - Good Day!

​My name is Tahalani Djarnda Torney. I am a Djabugay woman and artist from the rainforest region of tropical Far North Queensland. Djarnda is my Djabugay name meaning yellow walnut, Beilschmiedia bancroftii. I discovered my gift for painting at age 16 when my art teacher encouraged me to channel my culture into my work. From then on my passion for painting and cultural connection has grown and continues to be a lifestyle practice.

 

My art is an extension of my culture and spirit. Specialising in fine acrylic painting, digital design and weaving, I aim to capture the detail and beauty of animals and our natural surrounds. The paintings I create also carry on the age-old stories that have been passed down through the generations before me. I hope to continue creating contemporary art in a way that is deeply influenced by traditional Djabugay art styles and practices.