In the vast, untamed landscapes of Australia’s Top End, the King sisters—Sarrita and Tarisse—found their artistic voices.
As contemporary Aboriginal artists from the Gurindji and Waanyi people, they have become renowned for their evocative and culturally rich artworks.
Their journey from being the daughters of a celebrated Indigenous artist to becoming prolific artists in their own right is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and deep connection to their heritage.
Family history and early influences
Sarrita and Tarisse King’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with their family history. They are the daughters of the acclaimed Indigenous artist William King Jungala, whose teachings and artistic legacy have profoundly influenced their work.
Growing up surrounded by the vibrant colours, patterns, and stories of their people’s art, the sisters were instilled with a profound appreciation for their heritage.
“Our father taught us that our art is not just about aesthetics but about preserving and sharing our cultural stories,” Tarisse reflects.
This foundational lesson has guided their artistic practices, as they continually explore new mediums and methods to express their unique narratives.
Artistic journey
The King sisters’ artistic journey has been one of exploration, collaboration, and innovation.
Sarrita, based on Larrakia Country in the Northern Territory, and Tarisse, living on Ngati Kahungunu whenua Country, Aotearoa (New Zealand), often work together despite the geographical distance.
Their collaboration is a testament to their close bond and shared vision, which transcends physical boundaries.
Creating 'My Country’s Story'
A notable example of their collaborative work is the artwork “My Country’s Story,” a piece that beautifully encapsulates their individual styles and shared heritage.
This artwork epitomises the King sisters’ artistic and cultural journey. It’s a fusion of two individual works: Tarisse’s “My Country” and Sarrita’s “Language of the Earth.”
The former offers an aerial view of Australia’s diverse landscapes, particularly the Top End, where the sisters grew up. The latter delves into the lives of the families and communities inhabiting these lands, using different strokes and dots to represent the dynamic growth of community, connection, and culture.
“Sarrita and I got together to tell a story on a canvas and ended up creating a painting that was reflective of us and our journey,” Tarisse explains.
The collaborative process of creating “My Country’s Story” is a narrative in itself, reflecting the sisters’ journey and their deep connection to their heritage.
“We have been painting this story in collaboration for years, half the canvas each, to create the work that you see on the limited-edition frames,” Sarrita adds. This long-term collaboration highlights their commitment to their craft and to each other, as they seamlessly blend their individual styles into a cohesive whole.
Their approach to art is deeply rooted in the tradition of storytelling. The aerial view of “My Country” reflects on different landscapes and specifically references Australia’s Top End, where the King Sisters grew up.
The artwork “Language of the Earth” can be seen to tear through the country, reflecting on the families and communities who live on the land. The different strokes and dots express the ever-changing growth of community, connection, and culture.
This piece is not merely a painting but a visual narrative of their sha red experiences, cultural heritage, and the dynamic landscapes that have shaped their identities.
Collaboration with Specsavers and The Fred Hollows Foundation
The sisters are carrying on the artistic legacy of their father, William King Jungala.
This initiative is part of a long-standing partnership between Specsavers and The Fred Hollows Foundation, aimed at improving eye care accessibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. For every frame sold, $25 is donated to The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Indigenous Australia Program.
This collaboration holds special significance for the King sisters. “As an Aboriginal woman who practises storytelling, I want to use my skills to uplift my people, especially as we are predisposed to so many more issues than others and poor eye health is so common, especially in Indigenous communities,” Tarisse expresses.
The partnership not only showcases their art but also contributes to a cause close to their hearts, highlighting the role of art in fostering community well-being.
“To see our art, that tells our story, used to give back to our mob through the work of The Fred Hollows Foundation is so important to us,” Sarrita says. This sentiment underscores their commitment to using their art as a means of giving back to their community and supporting causes that resonate with their cultural values.
Legacy and impact
The new frames sporting the King sisters' artwork.
Their collaboration with organisations like Specsavers and The Fred Hollows Foundation further amplifies their impact, using their art to support meaningful initiatives that benefit their community.
Sarrita and Tarisse King’s journey as artists is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and dedication to their cultural roots.
Their collaborative works, such as “My Country’s Story,” which features on this year’s limited-edition range of frames with Specsavers, not only reflect the landscapes and communities of Australia’s Top End but also embody the spirit of collaboration, cultural preservation, and social responsibility. As they continue to explore new mediums and projects, their art will undoubtedly inspire and uplift future generations, carrying forward the legacy of their father and their people.
In essence, “My Country’s Story” is more than just a painting; it is a living testament to the King sisters’ journey, their cultural heritage, and their commitment to their community. Through this work, they have created a narrative of cultural pride, resilience, and community, ensuring their heritage remains vibrant and influential for years to come.
