Lauren’s work is deeply rooted in culture, family and connection to Country. In this conversation, she shares her journey into art, the meaning behind this year’s NAIDOC theme, and why supporting grassroots organisations like Miimi Aboriginal Corporation matters so much.
This is more than a product collaboration — it’s a celebration of story, sustainability, and the strength of First Nations communities.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and the Country you’re from?

My mob is Wiradjuri from Dubbo & Mudgee area but I was born & raised on beautiful Gumbaynggirr Country-mid north coast NSW.

How did your journey into art begin?

My dad is an artist so I grew up surrounded by his work which really inspired me. I was always creative but never planned to be an artist it kind of just slowly progressed with people showing interest in my work so I decided to start a website and an Instagram account in 2018.

I was really lucky to be featured by Kyal & Kara & Jumbled Online which put my work out to a bigger audience then I lost my job in Covid and I have been painting since.

This collaboration also supports Miimi Aboriginal Corporation. Can you share why this organisation is meaningful to you, and why supporting Aboriginal-led spaces matters?

Miimi is owned and led by Aboriginal women & Elders that dedicate their lives to looking after community. A lot of people think these types of organisations are funded or paid for but they actually rely on volunteers and donations. It is so important to support grass roots organisations as they know what’s best for community and country.

"To me I think it’s about standing up and being proud of who you are and carrying on the work those before us have done."

This year’s NAIDOC theme is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.” What does that mean to you?

To me I think it’s about standing up and being proud of who you are and carrying on the work those before us have done.

How do you see art as a way of preserving and sharing culture?

It's how I share my story. I grew up watching my dad paint & I hope my kids can look at my art as they get older and see the stories behind the paintings like I did with his, where we come from our family history, how they lived and keep their story alive.

What do you hope people feel or take away when they engage with your artwork?

I hope they can connect, learn a bit more about our history or maybe see things differently from another perspective.