Troy Drill

Born in 1981 in Wyndham, Troy Drill is a dynamic and emerging artist whose work is deeply intertwined with his Gija heritage and the landscapes of Western Australia. Growing up in a large family with six brothers and three sisters, Troy was immersed in the rich traditions and teachings of his elders, including his grandparents Simon Drill and Paddy Springvale, and Aunty IvyDrill. His formative years in Chinaman Gardens laid the foundation for a life enriched by culture andwisdom, shaping his artistic expression in profound ways.Troy’s journey as an artist is rooted in a powerful connection to the land and community. After spending his early years in Chinaman Gardens, he moved to Purnululu, where he was mentored by his grandfatherRaymond Wallaby, affectionately known as the “Big Boss.” This time spent under his grandfather’s guidance solidified Troy’s sense of identity and deepened his connection to his ancestral country. In his20s, Troy moved to Warmun, where he embraced family life, marrying and becoming a proud father to four children.Before his artistic path unfolded, Troy was a standout athlete, excelling in football and professional basketball across various states. His athletic prowess was a defining part of his life until, at 25, a severeinjury to his foot and legs changed the course of his journey. Faced with the challenges of rehabilitation,Troy turned to art as a source of healing, solace, and self-expression.In early 2024, encouraged by his brother-in-law Dwayne Jessell and his mother- Senior Gija Elder ShirleyDrill, Troy picked up a paintbrush for the first time. What began as a personal exploration of creativitysoon blossomed into a profound passion. Troy’s art is more than just a form of expression; it is a deep connection to his country, culture, and the stories that have been passed down through generations. Through his paintings, he invites viewers into the landscapes of the Gija people, weaving together Dreamtime stories, ancestral memories, and his own lived experiences.Each piece of Troy’s work is a reflection of resilience, strength, and the enduring power of cultural heritage. His art not only tells his personal story but also acts as a powerful vehicle for sharing the stories of his people. Troy’s work captures the essence of his homeland—the vast landscapes, sacred sites, and spiritual connections that define his culture, inviting audiences to step into the world of the Gija people and experience it with a fresh perspective.Troy Drill’s journey from athlete to artist is a testament to the power of transformation, illustrating how personal adversity can give rise to new forms of creativity. His vibrant and emotionally charged artworks serve as a bridge between past and present, offering a unique voice in the contemporary Indigenous art scene. As he continues to explore and express his identity through his craft, Troy’s work resonates with deep cultural significance, establishing him as one of the most exciting and inspiring emerging artists working today. In 2025, he was selected as a finalist in the Rockingham Print Prize, Fremantle Print Prize, and the Perth Royal Landscape Art Prize; a testament to his growing recognition and artistic excellence. His work continues to captivate audiences with its powerful connection to Country, culture, and contemporary storytelling.