REV25-182

Warlawoon- My Grandfather- Rammey Ramsay Country

Monica Cann, born in 2000, is a gifted emerging artist whose work reflects a deep connection to her cultural roots and ancestral legacy. Daughter of Ngargooroon man Charlie Cann and Juwurlinji artist Tracey Ramsay, Monica is part of a vital artistic lineage. She is also the granddaughter of the late, esteemed Warmun artist Rammey Ramsay, whose influence is evident in Monica's work. Through her art, Monica carries forward the rich traditions of her family, embracing cultural storytelling and the importance of preserving her heritage. Raised in Bow River and born in Kununurra, Monica now resides in the Warmun Community, where she is an active worker at the Warmun Art Centre. This community and its artistic heartbeat have become the foundation of her creative journey. In 2021, Monica began her painting journey, inspired by the stories and teachings passed down from her mother, Tracey. These stories, rooted in the landscapes and Ngarranggarni (Dreaming) of Bow River Country, inform and inspire Monica's artistic expression. Her paintings are deeply connected to the land, embodying the timeless stories, ancestral memories, and the spiritual significance of her people's connection to Country. Monica's art often depicts the natural landscapes of Bow River, capturing the beauty, spirit, and history embedded in the land. Her work is not only a representation of the environment but also a tribute to the Ngarranggarni the Dreaming stories that form the foundation of Gija culture. Through her art, she tells the stories of her ancestors, preserving and passing them on for future generations. Growing up in a close-knit family with three brothers and one sister, Monica shares a deep bond with her loved ones. Her brothers, Frances and Cedric, also work at the Art Centre, and together they carry forward the legacy of their cultural traditions. Outside of her artistic pursuits, Monica enjoys spending weekends fishing for Goondari in Bow River, a practice that connects her to her family's traditions and the land that continues to inspire her work. This connection to nature and community is at the heart of Monica's artistic journey, grounding her in the stories of her people and the land she calls home. Monica Cann is not only a talented visual artist but also a passionate storyteller. She is dedicated to honouring her family's traditions and the vibrant culture of her Gija community. As she continues to develop her artistic voice, Monica stands as a promising figure in the contemporary Gija art scene. Her work is an expression of her ancestors' teachings, ensuring that their stories remain alive and accessible to future generations. In a world where the power of cultural storytelling and artistic expression is more vital than ever, Monica's journey as an artist is one that will continue to inspire and educate, weaving the past, present, and future together through the timeless medium of art.

Fusion of Acrylics & Traditional Ochre on Canvas

80 x 80 x 3cm

Warmun Art Centre

Gija,  Ngargooroon, Juwurlinji