Description
c.2025, acrylic on canvas
Size 102 cm W x 77cm D
This painting reflects the deep cultural connection between the Yuin people and the pelican along Australia’s south coast. Revered as a sacred creature by many Indigenous Australians, the pelican was both respected and playfully feared, earning the name “The Thief” for stealing fish during food gathering. The artwork captures the powerful moment when the Yuin people first saw Captain Cook’s ship, the Endeavour, its towering white sails mistaken for a giant pelican. With no frame of reference for such a vessel, they responded swiftly, lighting fires and sending smoke signals to warn neighbouring clans to protect their children from the approaching spirit-like presence.
