Community
7 May, 2026
GALLERY: Immersive, creative experience at Mallee Creatives
The ongoing relationship between the town and artists Aunty Kathy Nicholls and Aunty Marilyn Nicholls was developed even further, one that goes back years.
CHARLTON residents were lucky enough to take part in an immersive experience over the weekend alongside the opening of Mallee Creative’s newest exhibition.
The ongoing relationship between the town and artists Aunty Kathy Nicholls and Aunty Marilyn Nicholls was developed even further, one that goes back years.
The two Djaara women use their skills in weaving and artistry to celebrate their rich history and connection to land - something that was shared through a number of workshops on Sunday afternoon.
“We are generational practitioners, we’ve learned these skills from our grandmother and mother and we teach them the way we feel is right,” Aunty Marilyn said.
“I’m always happy to see when people come and take part and pick up quickly.
“It’s also great to see so many women coming together to learn in the same space and have the experience together.”
While their skills are extensive, Aunty Kathy said it’s the connection to the materials that mattered to her.
“I love to use emu feathers, bottle brush seeds, seed pods on the ground, natural colours and weave them together to make something beautiful,” she said.
“I’m fascinated with orb spiders, which I understand isn’t for everyone, but love to include them in some way.”
But Aunty Marilyn said choosing your materials wisely was an important part of the journey.
“Understanding the landscape is important,” she said.
“For example, you use feathers with spirit in them, not just from an ordinary farm bird.
“It takes a lot of work to gather the materials, but also putting them back into the landscape.
“We have a connection to Boort for example, and we work a lot with the water watchers in that area.
“It’s all part of the process.”
Mallee Creative’s Kayleen Cossar said the relationship with the two artists was one they cherished.
“We already have pieces from Aunty Marilyn and Aunty Kathy here and want to keep expanding on our long history,” she said.
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