Daisy Gunaikurnai people

Daisy is a proud Gunaikurnai artist born in Traralgon and raised between Traralgon and Moe. Her journey into painting began in an unexpected place—in 2024, while in a 23-hour lockdown unit in prison. During this time, she found solace in art, learning by observing the other women around her. What started as a way to pass the time quickly became a powerful means of connection to her culture and identity.

Daisy’s work is deeply personal and spiritual. Before she starts a piece, she envisions it in her mind, allowing the imagery to form before bringing it to life on canvas. Her art is characterized by traditional crosshatching techniques, significant animals, and stenciling, reflecting the rich storytelling traditions of her ancestors. Each stroke of paint strengthens her cultural ties and inspires her to continue growing as an artist.

For Daisy, painting is more than just a creative outlet—it is a source of peace, pride, and purpose. When she paints, she feels calm and centered, embracing the process as a form of healing. She takes great pride in showcasing her creativity and wants her audience to know that her work is a true reflection of herself. Through her art, she shares the pride she has in being an Aboriginal woman and invites others to witness her journey of resilience, transformation, and cultural celebration.