DDR recently purchased two pieces of art from Aboriginal artist Bec McGuinness at The Shady Tree. The pieces, titled Through the Rainforest and The Wetlands, will be hung in a Defence base classroom in the Wagga Wagga region of New South Wales.

A proud Wiradjuri woman, Bec “takes pride in her culture and the art she paints from her heart and life experiences.” According to The Shady Tree website, “her works dignify strength and determination.”

Art from The Shady Tree showcases the passion and connection Bec has towards culture and each piece is a “meaningful statement that can inspire and enrich your own life.”

Bec is registered with many platforms, including Supply Nation – Australia’s largest database of verified Indigenous businesses; the Indigenous Art Code – empowering artists to achieve fair and transparent commercial opportunities; and the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia – working to ensure a vibrant, healthy, sustainable and inclusive Indigenous visual arts industry.

The Wetlands

“Using teal, blue, aqua and silver, I created this artwork to depict the climate changes we experience during environmental change. The wetlands and the wet season runs from November to April in areas including Darwin, Cairns and Broome. I loved creating this piece – it’s vibrant and warm.”

Through the Rainforest

“Close your eyes and imagine walking through deep forest terrain. It’s slightly drizzling rain drops and you can feel them touch your skin. It’s peaceful, the air is pure. Breathe in, breathe out. It’s fresh and purifying. It smells amazing, like pine cone wet bark. You can hear the crackling under your feet. The birds are singing. It’s a moment in time like nothing else exists. It’s Mother Nature. It’s the Dreaming speaking to you, guiding you along the way. You feel protected, safe and loved by your surroundings. It’s Country.”