Churchill Cann

Born: c.1945
Language Group: Kija / Miriwoong
Region: East Kimberley

Churchill Cann was born and grew up on Texas Downs Station, located northeast of Warmun. He worked as a stockman for most of his life and traveled extensively throughout the Kimberley, working on various cattle stations between Warmun and Broome. When station work ended, Churchill moved to the Warmun Community, where he became well-known as an important ceremonial dancer, bushman, and senior artist. He is one of the few remaining medicine men for the Gija language group, a role he inherited from his father.

Churchill's paintings reflect traditional Ngarrangkarni (Dreaming) stories as well as his personal experiences as a stockman and station hand. When creating a painting, he is very deliberate, often spending considerable time reflecting and considering what aspect of his country or experience he wishes to communicate.

Solo Exhibitions:

• 2015: "Yiliyarri - Churchill Cann," Aboriginal & Pacific Art, Sydney
• 2013: "Wariwoony Joolany (Wild Dog)," William Mora Gallery, Melbourne
• 1998: William Mora Gallery, Melbourne, VIC
• Collections include University of Wollongong Kerry Stokes Collection Artbank Private Collections Harvey Wagner Collection, USA Edith Cowen University Perth WA Murdoch University, Perth WA