My name is Debra Beale and I am a Sydney-based Artist and Designer Maker. I come from the Palawa/Yorta Yorta and Gamilaraay/Wonnarua Nation. I was born in Surry Hills, Sydney and have been practising art for over 25 years.
My artwork tells a narrative of my Aboriginal cultural practices, focusing on cultural heritage, environment, family and community. It is a combination of Womens Business, with a process ofacknowledging the past and moving forward to the future. A healing journey celebrating with song and dance and laughter.
In July 2005 I was the winner of the Indigenous section at Fashion Flair, Taree. In 2009 I was a finalist in the NSW Indigenous Parliament Art Awards. In 2006-2007 my work was chosen for the Sydney Christmas light show. My work was also chosen for the christening of the P&O cruise ship Pacific Dawn in 2007.
In September 2018-2019 I showcased my artwork as a Textile Designer Maker on the Global Indigenous runway at Melbourne Fashion Festival. I was commissioned to do works with Mckinsey& Co for their Youth Leadership program. I was also commissioned to develop a RAP for MSD Pharmaceutical Australia in 2019. My recent achievement is a public display of my artwork for NRMA representing my family and community.
I am currently studying a Bachelor of Fine Art with honours at the University of New South Wales, and currently receiving a scholarship. I am planning to major in textiles and hoping to take my career to the next level to study my masters overseas and exhibit my collections internationally.