Wanda Gibson

Born: 15/11/1946
Language: Guugu Yimithirr
Totem : Thuka (Goanna) & Waandarr (White Cockatoo)
Clan: Nugal Warra

Biography

Wanda, born in 1946 in Woorabinda, is a proud member of the Nugal Warra clan group. A fluent speaker of Guugu Yimithirr, she embodies her heritage through her totems: Thuka (Goanna) on her father’s side and Waandarr (White Cockatoo) on her mother’s side. Wanda is an important elder within the Nugal Warra clan, showcasing her deep connection to her culture.
During World War II, Wanda’s family was relocated from Cape Bedford and interned at Woorabinda Settlement due to the Australian government’s perception of Lutheran Missions in Cape York as a national security threat. However, following the war, they returned to a new settlement in Hope Valley, now known as Hope Vale.
Wanda’s artistic journey is rooted in a rich family legacy. Her ancestors were all artists, with her father skilled in crafting fish nets and building boats, while her mother and aunts excelled in weaving. In 2001, Wanda joined the Gamba Gamba group (senior women) at the culture centre, igniting her passion for art, inspired by her family’s story and traditions.
As a dedicated member of the group, Wanda contributes to preserving and celebrating traditional Guugu Yimithirr Warra culture. The artworks produced by the group are significant, encompassing both contemporary and historical narratives. The women possess invaluable cultural knowledge concerning family kinship systems, sacred sites, esoteric characters, and totems. They are deeply committed to documenting language and traditional stories, ensuring this cultural heritage is passed on to future generations.
Wanda has established herself as one of the longest-practicing artists at the art centre. She skillfully paints on linen canvas using acrylics and is a talented weaver and master dilly bag maker. Additionally, she creates unique jewellery and designs textiles, further enriching her cultural expression.
Wanda completed a Certificate IV in Visual Arts at TAFE to enhance her skills, demonstrating her dedication to her craft and commitment to continuing her artistic journey.