STORY - Tea Tree Blossom

Artwork: Tea Tree Blossom | 60 x 60cm acrylic on canvas
Artist: Holly Sanders

This artwork represents a totem Tree. Bundjalung Aboriginal people were the first to know of the Tea Tree’s healing properties. Leaves were crushed into paste and applied to cuts, burns, bites and skin ailments. The leaves were also brewed into a tea for coughs, colds and inflammation. Women bathed and gave birth in the sacred healing tea tree stained lakes as part of ceremonial and sacred practices of Women’s Business.

Tea Tree Blossum - Holly Sanders

Holly Sanders

Holly Sanders is a proud Aboriginal Bundjalung woman who is currently residing on Yuin Country, South Coast of New South Wales. Through her art she aims to share her stories, culture and Country in a contemporary way. The patterns of Saltwater Country motivate her, as do stories from the past.

The colours and patterns utilised in her art are a reflection of her connection to Country and used to develop a modern interpretation of her Aboriginal culture.

Painting and maintaining cultural traditions is important for her identity, wellbeing and expresses the way she understands and respects her culture, ancestors and Country.