"Bush Tucker Dreaming" by Justin Ronberg

Artist:    Justin Ronberg Iggy

Title:      Bush Tucker Dreaming

Size:       150 x 100 cm

Region:  Ukaka, NT

Free Worldwide

Commission work Available

His paintings exhibit a profound sense of connection to his homeland. Justin portrays the Australian landscape and its exquisite creatures through his distinctive, earthy painting style. This body of work exemplifies his vibrant creative expression, reflecting his ongoing artistic journey aimed at preserving and promoting his cultural heritage.

Justin Ronberg spent his formative years in the Northern Territory and the Central Desert regions, where his family encouraged him to develop his artistic talents. From an early age, Justin was captivated by the mesmerising sounds of the didgeridoo.

His depictions of the Australian landscape and earth are deeply intertwined with the Australian outback (bush). His creations are characterised by their earthy tones, vibrancy, and vitality.

His singular painting style effectively conveys the sounds and imagery of the Australian landscape. This artistic expression reflects his ongoing pursuit to celebrate and propagate his cultural heritage.

He was taught the fundamentals of art and craft, which enabled him to pursue his artistic aspirations. Justin is recognised internationally as a distinguished artist whose work is highly collected, and he is also a remarkable didgeridoo performer and instructor.

About the Painting

The Perente (Goanna) is a totemic spirit, and the Central / Western Desert Aboriginal artists depict the Goanna Dreaming to honour their ancestral spirits. Justin portrayed his land during sunset and immediately after rainfall, with the green grass emerging through the desert landscape. The “starbursts” symbolise the Spinifex grass, which is prevalent throughout Justin’s desert territory, while the small roundels represent wildflowers that bloom in vibrant colours from late July to early September. The Kangaroo is the most significant source of bush tucker for Justin’s people. The snake is regarded as the protector and creator of the land, and the Emu is associated with fortune and good luck.

This artwork features several animals used as bush tucker, including the Kangaroo, Emu, Snake, Goanna, and Spinifex. These animals serve as primary food sources (bush tucker) for Aboriginal communities residing within the Aboriginal Art Regions of Central Australia.

Art Awards and Exhibitions

• Justin participates in cultural events and festivals both in Australia and overseas. His works have been represented internationally in Europe and the U.S.A. at Selected Art Museums and Galleries.
•  Creative Native Aboriginal Art Gallery Perth – My extensive works are available for viewing and purchasing at Creative Native.
• Mbautua Art Gallery

Bands

Played Didgeridoo, percussion for Legendary Australian Bands:
Coloured Stone
Desert Sea Band
Rhythm Stick
Recorded Didge on various Australian Artist CD.