MADDY HODGETTS Buuganga (Bogan River)
"This artwork depicts the Buugan river, which starts in Wiradjuri Country and flows through Wangaaypuwan Country. With influences of traditional Ngiyampaa styles, the artwork depicts a mapping line style seen in our local cave art while using symbols to represent special landmarks and stories on Country.
The river is very important to my people, it provides water and food, making along the river a popular camping place. Along the river today you'll find evidence of my Ancestors, seen in scar trees, stone artefacts and remains of camps. Our rivers also hold a special creation story of Waway (Rainbow serpents), as in the beginning he travelled country,creating rivers, water holes and creeks.
I have a strong connection with the Buugan river today, in which I visit it daily to sit and practice my Culture. This is why I paint the river, it's my Ancestors, it's my Country, it's a part of my spirit."