From his traditional country of Roper River (East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory). Lipwurrunga (Les Huddleston) was born and grew up near Penrith, NSW. His parents and older brother were moved to Mulgoa Mission, from Groote Eylandt after the bombing of Darwin in 1941 during WWII.

Lipwurrunga moved back to Darwin in 1971 as he felt it was important to re-connect with the country from which his family had been dispossessed. It was there that he sought permission and guidance to paint from the Ngardi elders and began his career as an artist. His family returned to Ngukurr one year later.

Lipwurrunga is a prominent Aboriginal artist and for more than 35 years, he has explored land, water, identity and healing themes through his art and life. He an accomplished painter nationally and internationally and has been a Cultural Adviser for over 35 years.

Married to Beverly for 35 years, with four daughters and 11 grandchildren, Lipwurrunga has profound joy in sharing the rich and artistic tapestry of his Indigenous culture.

Lipwurrunga’s work is iconic to Australian history. One of Lipwurrunga’s fish paintings, has been on display alongside the National Apology to Australia’s Indigenous peoples, located in Sydney.

Lipwurrunga has also mastered the Didgeridoo, playing at the Opening Ceremony of the Rugby League World Cup Quarter Finals in Darwin 2017 and at the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games at the Gold Coast in 2018.

Lipwurrunga collaborates regularly with musicians fusing classical western music with the didj (didgeridoo).

A role model for his community and family, Lipwurrunga is also the nephew of Gertie Huddleston, the famous artist from Ngukurr Aboriginal community.

Lipwurrunga's works share a story from Ocean to the Billabongs, the life source and culture of Arnhem Land.

Lipwurrunga also explores energy lines, the journey of animals and fish, and the many indigenous seasons with grass and fire.

During the Exhibition, Lipwurrunga's Artwork and hand-made Didgeridoos are available for purchase.

All proceeds go to the artist and the Aboriginal community of the Larrakia Nation.

Hawthorn Arts Centre is the flagship destination for cultural and civic celebrations for the City of Boroondara.

For more information, visit https://www.boroondara.vic.gov.au/boroondara-arts/visit-us/hawthorn-arts-centre

Venue Accessibility

Hawthorn Arts Centre is wheelchair accessible, with ambulant toilets available.

Reserved disability parking spaces are in the public car park behind the Hawthorn Arts Centre.

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