Bertie Riley – Cultural artefact artist

All images copyright of the artist.

Bertie Riley was born in Cairns, raised in Kuranda and continues his work in carpentry and cabinet making locally.

Bertie, a descendant of Western Yalangi & Djabugay, enjoys making cultural artefacts including different types of boomerangs, shields, swords and  painting his own designs.

Encouraged by his mum, ten years ago Bertie began his journey in creativity, and has gone on to develop his own unique cultural style.

Bertie’s authentic designs encapsulate the stories of animals and plants, sacred places and the landscapes of his home country.

Bertie also keeps busy managing the Mayi Wunba dance group; Kuranda’s homegrown Bama cultural performance group.