Nardurna – Ryhia Dank’s Journey Through Country
Ryhia Dank is a contemporary Aboriginal artist – her new book, Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book, takes us on a journey through Country. For Indigenous peoples and allies alike, Ryhia invites us to engage with the stories, places and art from her world.
Photography: Deanna Large
“I’ve always had a love of colour. I suppose it started as a young child growing up on Country in the Northern Territory where you see all the colours of the rainbow in a single day – from the burning orange mornings to the purple as the sun sets, it is stunning.”
Ryhia Dank pictured with her artwork Solidarity with Movement. Photo: Deanna Large
Burnoff I by Ryhia Dank from Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book.
Solidarity with Movement by Ryhia Dank. Photo: Deanna Large
Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book by Ryhia Dank is available now.
Ryhia Dank is a Gudanji/Wakaja woman who grew up in a remote community in the Northern Territory. Now based on Gubbi Gubbi Country, Ryhia's paintings are her storywork. Gudanji/Wakaja people tell stories through pattern and design – Ryhia calls her storying Nardurna (nard-na): meaning woman in Gudanji language.
In her new book, Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book, Ryhia takes on a journey through Country. For Indigenous peoples and allies alike, Ryhia invites you to engage with the stories, places and art from her world in a powerful new way.
Throughout the colouring book, Ryhia shares her own unique perspective, offering insights into the sacred stories and significant places that hold immense cultural significance for Indigenous peoples. By embracing the act of colouring, readers are encouraged to take an active role in uncovering and preserving these narratives, fostering a sense of connection and respect for the rich tapestry of First Nations heritage.
‘I’ve always had a love of colour. I suppose it started as a young child growing up on Country in the Northern Territory, where you see all the colours of the rainbow in a single day; from the burning orange mornings to the purple as the sun sets – it is stunning,’ shares Ryhia.
The book offers artworks that share some of Ryhia’s experiences of growing up with family and community – within its pages are the places and the kin that shaped her childhood and the stories that inspire her contemporary art and design work. ‘My work is my life and stories in a visual form. It is where me and my family have lived for thousands of years,’ she says.
Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and storytelling. By inviting readers to partake in this immersive journey through Country, Ryhia lays the groundwork for intercultural dialogue, empathy, and appreciation.
This in an edited extract from ‘Nardurna – A First Nations Colouring Book ’ by Ryhia Dank published by Thames & Hudson. Purchase the book online now here.