Yarraville multi-disciplinary artist and curator Maree Clarke has received a nomination for the Victoria Australian of the Year award.
She joined 130 people recognised as nominees from each state and territory across the country as part of the Australian of the Year awards.
With more than 30 years as an artist under her belt, including the Possum Skin Cloaks worn at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 and The Line Wide artwork for five stations in Melbourne’s new underground rail loop, Ms Clarke’s art pass on cultural knowledge and traditional art practices.
As a Mutti Mutti, Yorta Yorta and Boon Wurrung/Wemba Wemba woman, she has also been a key individual in supporting fellow Aboriginal people and artists mentor others who are interested in learning about culture and practices.
Ms Clarke has meticulously recorded the materials she collects for each work so future generations can study and appreciate them and she has also taught the practices she has learned to her family and ‘mob’ groups.
National Australia Day Council chief executive Karlie Brand said each nominee signified the power all Australians have to make a difference.
“The 2023 Victorian nominees are a diverse group of achievers and community contributors,” she said.
The Victorian recipients of the Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero awards will be announced on Tuesday, November 8.
The winners will then join the other state and territory recipients as national finalists for the national awards announcement on January 25, 2023 in Canberra.
Details: australianoftheyear.org.au
