Join artist educators Merindah Funnell (Wiradjuri) and Emma Hicks (Gamilaroi) for an all-ages, relaxed, drop-in-style, creative workshop acknowledging the plants, animals, and waterways that connect us to Country.

Merindah, who lives and works on Dharug and Gundungurra Country, will bring along a beautiful selection of native plants from her own garden that she has nurtured to invite back native wildlife and habitats. These plants will become a source of inspiration for our art-making and conversation.

Participants will experiment with a variety of materials including drawing, watercolour, wax crayons, oil pastels to create their own personalised tote bag.

The session is all about sharing stories, connecting to place, and experimenting with a variety of materials all in collaboration with Country.

All materials will be provided.

Emma Hicks & Merindah Funnell – Collaborative Practice

Emma Hicks and Merindah Funnell have collaborated for over six years, building a practice grounded in community consultation, cultural protocols, and deep respect for Country. Their work is shaped by relationships with community, ensuring that projects are guided by local knowledge and cultural protocols. They prioritise collaboration with Elders and community leaders.

Together, they have developed a number of education programs and resources that centre First Nations perspectives. Most recently, they created the learning resource for kith and kin by Archie Moore at the 2024 Venice Biennale. Their latest collaborative exhibition, Echoes of Light: Our Connection Through Waterways (Willoughby Council), was co-designed through workshops with local Aunties and leaders of the community on Cammeraygal.

Merindah Funnell
Merindah is a proud Tubba-Gah Wiradjuri and English woman, born on Dharawal Country and currently based on Dharug and Gundangurra Country. An artist and educator, her practice spans over 30 public artworks, from large-scale murals to delicate embroidered paintings. She is also the illustrator of two published children’s books. Merindah’s bold use of colour and linework honours her connection to Country and celebrates First Nations identity. She holds both EWP and Yellow Card certifications.

Dr Emma Hicks
Emma is a Sydney-based artist, writer, and educator of Gamilaroi and European heritage, currently based on Cammeraygal Country. Her multidisciplinary practice includes film, sculpture, installation, drawing, and writing. She responds to place and concept with an emphasis on personal storytelling and connection to Country. Emma’s work is grounded in collaboration and a commitment to community-led creative processes.

Contact the host of Creative Drop-In Workshop: Connection to Country through Waterways