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Queenie McKenzie
Untitled (detail) 1994
earth pigments and natural binder on canvas
Geelong Gallery
Gift of Jim Cousins AO and Libby Cousins through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program, 2018
© Queenie McKenzie/Copyright Agency, 2020
Photographer: Andrew Curtis


Queenie McKenzie


Queenie McKenzie
Language group: Gija

Untitled 1994
earth pigments and natural
binder on canvas
Geelong Gallery
Gift of Jim Cousins AO and Libby Cousins
through the Australian Government’s
Cultural Gifts Program, 2018
© Queenie McKenzie/Copyright Agency, 2020

Queenie McKenzie’s approach to painting was distinctive for its lateral or profile view of the landscape. Her colourful and undulating compositions depict the rugged hills of her home Country at Texas Downs Station, East Kimberley and Warmun in Western Australia, where she lived in her later years. McKenzie’s works include multiple locations, drawing audiences into a dynamic visual history of her life. The underlying narratives of her works pertain to her feeling for, and knowledge of, sacred lands. Her paintings depict specific geographical landmarks prompting an appreciation of her physical and spiritual connection to the landscape.

Ochre is the name given to a family of natural earth pigments which Queenie McKenzie uses as a painting medium in her artwork. Learn how these pigments are derived from crushing or grinding rock and clay and adding water.

Learn more

Exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories—A Geelong Gallery collection resource (PDF, 2.37 MB)