Dolores (Dolly) Henry

Dolores (Dolly) Henry is from the Tiwi Islands, north of Darwin.

She had previously lived in Port Adelaide, where she was working toward completion of a business degree, but has since returned to her home country.

She describes her painting as a mix of traditional and contemporary Tiwi style with western influence, although the the style of her work, unique as it is, are of country were she grew up and the changes within the seasons.

The stories that are unique to her culture, have helped her get through the most stressful times of a long term disability. She values her ancestral past and acknowledges her people with pride.

‘I love to share my knowledge, passion and dream time stories that I still practice today, it has helped me to keep my culture strong and alive while living so far away from home and country.’

Her works Saltwater Barramundi (2017) and Tiwi Island Totem Poles (2017) featured in the state wide survey of Aboriginal art called Our Mob 2017 at the Adelaide Festival Centre.

She belongs to the Jamulampi clan group from the western side of Melville Island. She is a Japijapunga (Cheeky March Fly) female member. Her family dreaming dance is Yirrikipayi (Saltwater Crocodile).

She strongly believes that art is important to everyone. ‘Art is education, and a sense of identity through story lines, Dreaming and Ceremony.’

Art, for Dolly, has and continues to be a way to help heal herself.