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Hope Vale Arts & Cultural Centre

Doreen Hart - Gurriitha (Octopus) - Salmon, Linen

$435.00

Note: All available-for-purchase artworks featured in The Shape of Time exhibition can be collected at the end of July, 2025.

All Hopevale Arts & Cultural Centre fabrics featured in this exhibition are available for purchase.

The price shown is per 2-metre and can be purchased in even-numbered metres.

 

BIRRANGAY BULILIL (leaves falling) - Hope vale Autumn collection 2025

 

About the Artist - Doreen Hart   

Born  1957
Language Guugu Yimithirr
Totem  Gaalaya (Centipede) & Mirrgi (Night Owl)
Clan  Binthi Warra / Bulgan Warra

Doreen Hart was born in 1957 in Hope Vale, where her journey in art began through the encouragement of her artistic friends.

Inspired by their creativity, she decided to attend a textile workshop at the Hope Vale Art Centre. Initially, Doreen struggled with confidence in her abilities; however, she persevered and dedicated herself to drawing. It was during this process that she developed an impressive octopus design, which exceeded her expectations and left her pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Since that early experience, Doreen has made it a priority to visit the Art Centre whenever possible, where she practices painting and hones her skills. Her determination and passion for art have driven her to prepare for an upcoming exhibition, as she hopes to showcase her artwork at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) this year.

About the Design - Gurriitha (Octopus)

“As a young girl, one of the dreamtime stories that captivated my imagination was about the creature known as “Gurriitha,” a majestic sea octopus that resides among the boulder rocks situated just outside the McIvor River in Far North Queensland (FNQ). This boulder is a favoured spot for both fishing and diving among the locals, drawn to its rich marine life and picturesque scenery.

According to the dreamtime story, those who ventured too close to Gurriitha's dwelling while fishing or diving would mysteriously be pulled under the water, as if the creature was guarding its territory. The tale served as both a cautionary reminder and a reflection of the deep respect the community held for the ocean and its enigmatic inhabitants.

Locals often advised one another to keep a safe distance from that area, respecting the power of Gurriitha and maintaining harmony with the natural world. This story reflects the intricate connection between Indigenous culture and the environment, illustrating the importance of understanding and preserving the delicate balance of nature.”

Material
Linen

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