Jemma Stewart
Resistance

2023
acrylic on canvas
91.5 x 60.5cm

The painting “Resistance” represents the resilience
and strength of Aboriginal people and stories during
the invasion of Australia. Colonization caused
thousands of Aboriginal Australians to be stripped
of their culture in an attempt to erase Australian
history. However, through storytelling, connecting
with elders and ancestors, Aboriginal people resisted
and continue to have a strong connection with
their culture. This is shown in this painting through
symbolism such as the lines spreading across the
canvas, representing storytelling and tradition. The
circles following the lines represent culture, land,
elders, and ancestors. Showing how aboriginal
culture lives on through all these things.