BEHIND THE BRUSH: PICNIC SEASON X MARALMA KING
Togetherness is a story rich in the cultural fibre of family and connection. We caught up with Maralma to hear more about her home and her practice.
Q. Tell us a little about you in a nutshell?
A: I’m a wife and mum of 4 children, I am a proud Gamilaraay/Yuwaalaraay woman from Lightning Ridge, NSW. My totem is the emu and would you believe that the emu is my and my children’s favourite animal! You wouldn’t be able to tell through my art but I do have a favourite colour…. PINK!
Q: Your artworks are known for their storytelling with uplifting, bright colours. Where do you find inspiration for your artwork and colour palette?
A: My children, they LOVE bright colours, it brings so much joy and happiness into their lives and I try to incorporate that into each piece of art I create.
My home Lightning Ridge has strong vibrant colours such as the red dirt, when I’m home I love watching the sundown, there is always different beautiful tones of oranges reds and pinks.
Lightning ridge is also very known for the famous Black Opal, the Black Opal is filled with beautiful colours!
All my paintings and symbols reflect family, gatherings, friendships, the land, our beautiful foods animals and plants.
Q. Your piece "Togetherness" tells a story of family and connections. Tell us about the special places in your local environment where you connect with your loved ones?
A: I love being home in my community in Lightning Ridge, gathering with all my family. It’s where I feel like I am home the most. It’s where I belong and it will always be my favourite place to go and spend my time.
Q: You work from home. Tell us about your work space?
A: I create all my artwork on the floor or my kitchen bench.
Q: Tell us about your creative process? How do you get into your creative happy place?
A: People will share a journey or story they would like a painting to represent. It’s always lovely hearing everyone stories, learning and getting to know my clients more, that is what guides me, and where I put my paint brushes to work and begin the process of creating their story in my symbols.
Whenever I am holding my paint brush, I feel like nothing else matters, it’s where I get to switch off, play my music and paint these beautiful stories for people to hang in their space and share on with others.
Q. What are you currently binge watching?
A: Binge watching... as a mum of 4 I don't really get too much time to watch anything. I enjoy sitting and watching the odd movie on Netflix though
Q: We've seen you on Playschool teaching pre schoolers about your totem animal, the Emu. And we're crushing on your latest "Dreaming" collab with Bed Bath n Table. You are one busy lady! What’s next for Maralma King?
A:To continue painting my stories, creating personal paintings that my clients can relate to in their spaces and shops! also taking every opportunity to be able to share on my culture!
