Artist in Residence | The Walley’s | MAKURU

For 2 weeks commencing Monday 13 July, Richard and Rickeeta will create an “open studio” in the State Buildings where we witness the creation of a cross-generational artwork celebrating the essence of Noongar Boodjar Country, this precious, bold and beautiful Western Australia, while yarning sessions, storytelling, weaving workshops and song will be shared as part of the public programming.

Both Nyoongar–Yamatji artists, Richard’s visual art comes from a deep connection to Country and lived experience, translating story and place into contemporary language. Rickeeta’s work draws attention to the small systems that exist within the landscape, such as insects, seeds, textures, and the layered surfaces of the natural world, wishing to reveal the quiet complexity that sits beneath. Their practice will guide the interwoven tone of this special father-daughter Residency, reflecting the significance of Place and the storytelling shared now and to the future generations to come.

A residency not to be missed, marking a rare moment of renewed output from Richard; a celebrated senior cultural figure, sitting in practice with his daughter Rickeeta, an emerging artist whose passion for culture and Country is shared through her multidisciplinary art.

Dr Richard Walley OAM

Dr Richard Walley OAM is a Nyoongar–Yamatji artist whose practice extends decades. Known internationally as a performer, musician and cultural leader, Richard has also been honoured with some of Australia’s highest awards, including the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and an Honorary Doctorate, acknowledging his lifelong contribution to the arts and to Aboriginal cultural leadership.

Richard’s visual art comes from a deep connection to Country and lived experience, translating story and place into contemporary language. Each work carries cultural knowledge and authority, shaped by years of practice across performance, storytelling, and community leadership.

Richard’s works are held in private collections and sought by institutions who value both their aesthetic presence and cultural significance. His practice continues to evolve, marking a rare and welcome moment of renewed practice from a senior cultural figure in the arts.

Rickeeta Walley

Rickeeta Walley is a Nyoongar–Yamatji artist whose practice explores the subtle intricacies of Boodjar (Country). Her work draws attention to the small systems that exist within the landscape, such as insects, seeds, textures, and the layered surfaces of the natural world. Her intention is to reveal the quiet complexity that sits beneath what we often see at first glance.

Influenced by her background as an educator in biodiversity, Rickeeta approaches Country with a heightened awareness of ecological relationships and natural patterns. This perspective inspires the way she observes and interprets the environment.

Mentored by her father, Dr Richard Walley OAM, Rickeeta continues to develop her own artistic language while drawing strength from cultural knowledge passed through generations.