NIKKI CARABETTA
nee Baugh-Bell
I was born Yamaji (Wadjari) in Western Australia and when I was 10, I moved to the Northern territory where I grew up Brinkin/Malak-Malak or Ngangikurrunggurr. My early adulthood in Darwin was influenced by the Larrakia people mostly from the elders of Kulaluk, as well as Maningrida, Port Keats and the Tiwi Islands as people from these places would often stay there. I would sit with the ladies on the verandah of Aunty Kathleen’s house at Kulaluk and paint or weave with them; this is where my passion for art began. In 1996 I moved to Adelaide where I have lived since.
I consider myself an urban artist, however having grown up traditionally in rural/bush and urban Aboriginal communities, my culture is a big part of who I am and this to is reflected in my artwork. Dot painting is my main style of art in which I use traditional methods I have learnt as well as contemporary techniques and mediums. My art is a reflection of my traditional culture and how it has evolved and adapted itself to my modern urban lifestyle. It is the combination of the two that makes my work unique.
Growing up the way I did, I have many stories and experiences that I like to share as well as an extensive knowledge of my culture. Dot painting is my main style of art however I have learnt many other traditional forms from elders which I teach in my workshops. I look forward to being able to share all of this with the wider community of Adelaide.