The team at Community Bank Seddon had the pleasure of connecting with local artist, Jack Forbes-Walker (aka Salt Water Boy) in 2022, while sponsoring his participation in a local artist in residence program.
Jack is a proud descendant of the Biripi people of the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Raised and born on Awabakal Land in Newcastle and currently based in West Footscray, Jack has been honing his technique and telling stories through his painting. Traditionally Jack uses acrylic on canvas as his medium but has also worked with clay making plaques and bowls combined with traditional Aboriginal design.
Through his paintings stories are told about the past, present and future. The inspiration for his painting developed through stories being passed on, personal experience and surrounding nature.
In 2021 and 2022 Jack placed in the Australian Multicultural Community Services Art Challenge. Most recently Jack presented works at the Show Your West Side exhibition, Corner Studio exhibition and is currently exhibiting in the Koorie Art Show at the Koorie Heritage Trust.
The three artworks currently on display represent his cultural connections to Country. Jack described that his inspiration in creating these works the creation of these works were “the memories growing up, running around barefoot on Country. Exploring Biripi earth, running through Awabakal forest and swimming in Worimi waters.”
Jack’s work will be on display at the Community Bank Seddon, 90 Charles St Seddon until the 29th February. Opening hours Monday — Friday 9.30am–4.00pm
To see more of Jack’s work including his exhibition at the Koorie Art Show, find him on instagram: salt.water.boy
