Bianca Gardiner-Dodd
Contemporary Aboriginal Artist. I was born in 1978 and spent my early years in the western suburbs of Sydney before moving to Tweed Heads with my family at the age of 10.
My mother, Gloria Gardiner (Chapman), also a contemporary Aboriginal artist of the Northern Rivers, was born in the Aboriginal community of Goodooga, north-west New South Wales, on the traditional lands of the Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi people.
I have family ties to the Bundjalung lands of the Tweed and Byron coasts through my husband, who is a Bundjalung man, and our children. I have lived with my family in the coastal village of Pottsville Beach on the New South Wales north coast for over 13 years.
My art reflects the coastal environment and surrounding elements of my life, including estuaries, beaches and marine life. Many of the symbols in my work represent my interpretation of coastal life, harmony and unity.
My art is another platform through which I articulate my creative journey — from young dancer to adult teacher, choreographer and contemporary Aboriginal artist.
Qualifications: Bachelor of Arts (Dance) and Bachelor of Education.