Monica Cann

Monica Cann, born in 2000, is an emerging artist whose work beautifully intertwines the traditions of her heritage with a contemporary artistic voice. As the daughter of Ngargooroonman Charlie Cann and renowned Juwurlinji artist Tracey Ramsay, Monica is deeply connected to her artistic lineage. She is also the granddaughter of the late, revered Warmun artist Rammey Ramsay, whose influence resonates throughout Monica’s art. Through her creative practice, Monica honors and continues the legacy of her family, embracing the timeless art of storytelling and cultural preservation.Raised in Bow River and born in Kununurra, Monica now resides in the Warmun Community, where she is an active member of the artistic hub at Warmun Art Centre. This vibrant community has become the cornerstone of her creative journey, offering Monica the opportunity to grow within a nurturing environment steeped in cultural wisdom. In 2021,Monica began her painting journey, inspired by the stories passed down to her by her mother,Tracey. These stories, rooted in the landscapes and Ngarranggarni (Dreamtime stories) of BowRiver Country, serve as the foundation for Monica’s artistic expression. Her work embodies the deep spiritual connection her people share with the land and the ancestors that have shaped their stories.Monica’s paintings are rich with the colours, textures, and symbols of Bow River Country. She brings to life the natural beauty of her surroundings, using her art to communicate the spirit and history embedded in the land. More than just depictions of the environment, Monica’s works honour the Ngarranggarni; the Dreamtime stories that inform Gija culture and connect the past with the present. Through her paintings, Monica ensures that the stories of her ancestors are preserved, making them accessible to future generations.A close-knit family environment has played a vital role in Monica’s life. Growing up alongside her three brothers and one sister, Monica shares a strong bond with her loved ones. Outside her artistic endeavours, Monica enjoys fishing for Goondari in Bow River, an activity that connects her to the traditional practices of her people and further deepens her connection to the land that inspires her work.Monica Cann is not only a gifted visual artist but also a passionate storyteller, committed to preserving her family’s traditions and the cultural heritage of her Gija community. As she continues to develop her artistic voice, Monica is quickly becoming a prominent figure in the contemporary Gija art scene. Her work serves as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the teachings of her ancestors remain alive and relevant. Monica’s art is a celebration of her people’s history, spirit, and connection to Country, offering a profound and lasting legacy for the future.