Meeting Aboriginal Elder Burnum Burnum in Sydney

Teena Hughes Meeting Aboriginal Elder Burnum Burnum

Wildlife Exhibition at the Australian Museum in Sydney

Above: Teena Hughes with well known Australian Aboriginal Elder Burnum Burnum at the Wildlife Exhibition

One of the artistic pleasures I’ve had has been meeting Aboriginal Elder Burnum Burnum at the Wildlife Exhibition I participated in the 1980s.

I had three large Australian animal paintings on show as part of the Artists for Life group.

Earlier in the afternoon, all the artists were at the Museum to make sure their artwork was displayed correctly with the Artist information cards attached to walls beside each painting.

When I came back later for the Opening, I was stunned – and thrilled – that the TV cameras were all set up facing my paintings!

Burnum Burnam was then interviewed IN FRONT OF my paintings — how amazing! And such a privilege for me. My artwork was on TVs across Australia, and in newspaper and magazine articles.

It was an incredible evening, one which has stayed in my memory for many years.

Meeting Aboriginal Elder Burnum Burnum in Sydney

My “Koala Dreaming” in a gum tree has always been one of my most popular paintings.

On Aug 17, 1997 – Burnum Burnum, battler for cause of the Aborigines, passed away at age 61.

His missed by many people worldwide, and was such a wonderful character.

Have you ever met someone you admired? I’d love to hear about it, please comment below or send me an email, and if you’re happy for me to share your story on this page, please do let me know.