Discovering Indigenous Art: Liz Clarke's Generous Donation to Mini Tails Sanctuary

Recently, we had the pleasure of catching up with Indigenous artist Liz Clarke, whose impact in the community through her art is truly remarkable. Liz recently donated an incredible piece to Mini Tails Sanctuary to help raise funds for our planned bird enclosure. This conversation highlighted her artistic journey and emphasized how creativity can support animal rescue efforts.

Contemporary Indigenous Artist Liz Clarke with artwork ‘Glass House Mountains”

What inspired you to become an artist?

Liz: I have always enjoyed having creative outlets. I started painting during lockdown in covid (2020) and continue to paint as a hobby to unwind, for my mental health, and connect with my Aboriginal culture.

Can you tell us a bit about your creative process?

Liz: I feel like my creativity is as its best when I really connect with what I am painting. My paintings are primarily symbolic as opposed to telling a story. When doing commission pieces, I ask people to tell me what they would like the painting to be about or represent; what colours they like; and if there are any key features (e.g. flowers, animals) they would like incorporated. Whereas, if I am painting for a fundraiser or a gift, I think about why I am doing the painting (i.e. why it matters / why is it meaningful to me) and it just flows from there. I rarely plan out my paintings in advance, so trial and error (and patience!) forms a big part of my creative process.

Why did you choose to create and donate this piece to Mini Tails?

Liz: My beautiful friend, Di, volunteers for Mini Tails. I had the pleasure of visiting the sanctuary with her a few months ago and absolutely fell in love with the animals. When Di told me she was arranging a fundraiser for a new coop for Captain and his ladies, I offered to do a painting to support this wonderful cause.

Why is supporting animal rescues important to you? I am vegan for the animals and often feel so helpless knowing how horribly the majority of the world treats sentient beings. Supporting animal rescues through my art and volunteering is one way that I feel like I can at least make a bit of a difference - I can't save them all, but if I can help those who are lucky enough to be saved then at least that's something.

Do you have a favorite animal that inspires you?

Liz: Pigs have stolen my heart. I have even incorporated a pig snout in my painting signature. I also collaborate on paintings with pigs from other sanctuaries to fundraise for them - the painting process provides the pigs with some fun enrichment too.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to explore their creativity?

Liz: Don't be afraid of having a go. I am not naturally gifted at painting, I never did art classes, nor was I taught by anyone. It's taken a lot of trial and error and my art journey is continually evolving, but I persevere because I enjoy it. Your style won't always be everyone's cup of tea - sometimes I don't really like my paintings, but others love them and vice versa. If it fills your soul, that's all that matters.

Where can people see more of your work or follow your journey? Instagram although my account is on private, I accept most follow requests.

Enter our Raffle now to win Liz's gorgouse artwork or other prizes and help Mini Tails build our birds their dream home.

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