2024 HIGHLY COMMENDED
Me, myself and I
Ellah Cowburn
- Sitter: Ellah Cowburn
- Medium: Mixed Media
- Dimensions: 90cm x 60cm
- Artist Age: 16
- Artist School: Mary MacKillop College
About the work
In my art, I delve into the theme of looking inward, exploring what reflects me as a person. My name is Ellah Cowburn, and I embrace my cultural heritage, drawing from my Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Maori roots.
Using a monoprint technique, I created a self-portrait that embodies these diverse cultural influences. The owl, symbolising my Wakka Wakka heritage, stands as my totem, while the manta ray and headpiece represent my Torres Strait Islander roots. The Ta Moko on my chin represents my Maori ancestry.
Through this piece, I aim to celebrate the richness and complexity of my cultural identity, inviting viewers to reflect on their heritage and the layers that make up their identity.
