Ricky Drill

Colin & Ricky Drill at Mia Mia Gallery

BiographyBorn: 1970, Halls Creek, Kimberly Region WA.

Ricky is a descendent of the Aboriginal Kija tribe, and is a traditional owner of the Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park near Turkey Creek, WA. As a child, Ricky spent time travelling through the Kimberlys, living a traditional life where his elders taught him how to hunt, fish and harvest traditional foods. Their teachings also included storytelling, which was expressed through song, dance and art.

Ricky began painting as an adult and often speaks of his land from which he has his greatest inspirations. His paintings reflect his memories of rock paintings and the vivid colours of the land.

Ricky believes that his art is a blend of contemporary and traditional methods, in which he prefers to use colours from the land. Each unique piece tells a different story.

The Bungle Bungle Range

The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park (‘Purnululu’ meaning ‘sandstone’ in the Kija Aboriginal language), is one of the most fascinating geological landmarks in Western Australia. Geologists believe that the Range was formed 350 million years ago.

The Bungle Bungles, which are orange and black bee-hive like mounds, rise up to 578 metres above sea level and feature many unique plants, like species of Livingstonia palm that are nowhere else to be found. This area has been a National Park since 1987 and has recently been returned to the Kija tribe, who are the rightful owners of this land.

Artwork featured at Mia Mia

Dumbi-Turtle Dreaming
Acrylic on Canvas 71 x 56 cm

Gumbawoin (Water Holes)
Acrylic on Canvas 84 x 137 cm

Crocodile Dreaming
Acrylic on Canvas 61 x 91 cm

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