Kuranda

400mm height
200mm width
220mm depth 

 Kuranda is a deeply personal tribute to the spirit of an Aboriginal elder from the rainforest town of Kuranda, nestled in the heart of North Queensland. This sculpted portrait captures more than the likeness of a man — it reflects a legacy of wisdom, connection to land, and the quiet resilience carried through generations.

The figure’s strong features, flowing beard, and gently furrowed brow suggest a life of deep thought and cultural leadership. His expression is calm, yet filled with a knowing presence — as if he’s listening to the wind move through the trees or remembering stories told by firelight. The flowing lines carved into his hair echo the paths of the Barron River and the movement of rainforest vines — symbolising his bond with Country.

Kuranda, the town and the man, represent a meeting place: of ancient tradition and enduring spirit. The artist’s use of richly toned wood speaks to the natural strength of the land itself, grounding the elder in the material of his ancestors. Every groove in the sculpture holds echoes of Dreaming stories, seasonal cycles, and the rhythms of life in the tropics.

Kuranda is not just a bust — it’s a carved memory of a man who walked with the land, listened to its silence, and carried its stories with dignity.