* Eternal Registry by Dave Doyle
It was a night of celebration at the Broken Hill City Art Gallery last week during the official opening of the 2025 Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards (MMIAA), marking 30 years of Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Health Corporation.
The Awards exhibition was opened alongside Murra by Malyangapa Baaka Wiimpatja artist Leroy Johnson, winner of the 2025 Open Cut Commission, and Time and Tide, a group printmaking exhibition featuring seven acclaimed artists from across Australia.
The evening was officially opened by Mayor Tom Kennedy, with remarks from Gallery and Museum Manager Kathy Graham, and the presentation of awards by Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Health Corporation CEO Richard Weston and guest judge Rebecca Ray (Curator, First Nations Collections and Exhibitions, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia).
"The Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards hold a special place in the Gallery's program," said Ms Graham.
"Each year we are inspired by the diversity, depth, and creative power of First Nations artists in our region. These works carry stories of identity, culture, and resilience, and it's a privilege to host this exhibition in partnership with Maari Ma Health and West Darling Arts.
Guest judge Rebecca Ray, a mainland Torres Strait Islander woman and experienced First Nations curator, writer, and researcher, commended the exceptional quality of this year's entries, noting the exhibition's strength in storytelling and cultural connection.
20025 MMIAA Award Winners
Overall Winner:
Dave Doyle- Eternal Registry
A powerful reflection on memory and Country, Eternal Registry draws inspiration from ancient hand stencils found in Aboriginal cave art. Using pigments made from local timbers and charcoal, Doyle layers ochre-toned hands to symbolise generations of connection and the enduring presence of ancestors.
"We are still here—still making our marks, still adding to this story."
2D Winner:
Cameron Wood - Hunter Dreaming
Wood's painting celebrates connection to culture and Country through a tribute to his father and their first hunting trip together. The work embodies the Dreaming and spirit of Thalta (Kangaroo) and Kalthi (Emu), representing the traditions and teachings passed down through generations.
3D Winner:
Barbara Quayle - Weight of Kiira
Cast in bronze, this sculptural work honours Baaka and Kiira, the rivers and life forces of Barkindji Country. It stands as an act of remembrance and resilience, embodying the spirit of Ngatji and the strength of the people who care for the land and water.
Emerging Artist:
Louise Murray- Wedge Tail Eagle
A vibrant, neon-hued tribute to the Wedge Tail Eagle, a protector and spiritual guardian, Murray's work celebrates strength, courage, and community.
"These beautiful big birds watch over us, giving our community strength and courage."
Nhuungku Prize:
Darlene Newman- Emu Costume
Created using emu feathers, quondong seeds, and echidna quills, this work celebrates local culture through costume design that encourages children to connect with dance and Country. The earrings included were made 30 years ago by the artist's mother, symbolising continuity and heritage.
School Combined Award:
Wilcannia Central School- Stage 4 NAIDOC Banner
A collaborative artwork celebrating the culture of the Paakintji people and the importance of staying connected to land and water. Handprints and tracks symbolise legacy, unity, and generational knowledge shared through the theme "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, Legacy."
Young Artist (Under 21):
Skey Fry - Deadly Sunset
With a bold and glowing sky, Fry's painting captures the magic of the desert dusk. Simple, striking, and heartfelt, it reminds us that "nothing is more beautiful than a desert sunset."
Young Artist (Under 15):
Jetta Hall- World & Family
Hall's joyful, pattern-rich painting celebrates family and belonging. "My world and the people around me that guide me through life."
Through vivid colour and movement, Hall honours the connections that shape her world.
