Artist Profile Dwayne Jessell
Dwayne Jessell, Portrait of Mr. Patrick Mung – Senior Gija Elder, The Last of His Generation, 2025, Ink linocut on Hahnemühle 300GSM cotton rag paper (unframed), edition of 10 plus 2 artist proofs, 21.7″ x 17.7″ (550 mm x 450 mm).
Jessell’s strikingly soulful linocut conveys ancestral steadiness and care.
Artist Statement
This linocut print marks my first exploration into the medium, capturing the essence of both my artistic journey and my deep-rooted cultural connections. Inspired by the enduring legacy of my late father, Jack Britten, and the profound influence of senior Warmun artists, I strive to express a raw and fearless directness in my work.
The portrait honours Mr. Patrick Mung, a revered Gija Senior Elder and the last living link to his generation. Sitting with Patrick; listening to him sing and share cultural memories of Country and his days as a stockman, evokes cherished moments spent with my father and the elders who helped raise me. I hold a deep respect for this generation of men. In those moments, I feel my father’s presence, drawing me closer to him once again.
This print is more than a representation of Patrick, it is a celebration of the resilience and continuity of our culture. I hope it stands as a tribute to the wisdom of our elders and inspires future generations to carry forward the rich tapestry of our heritage.
Artist Biography
Dwayne Jessell (b. 1979) is a bold force in contemporary Indigenous art. Raised by his grandfather, the late Jack Britten, legendary Gija artist and co-founder of Warmun Art Centre, Dwayne’s practice is deeply rooted in Country, culture, and legacy. From the ochre-rich landscapes of Purnululu to the spiritual depth of Ngarranggarni (Dreamtime) stories, his work pulses with ancestral memory and personal vision.
Known for his fearless compositions and masterful use of traditional ochre, Dwayne bridges ancient knowledge with striking innovation. His paintings evoke totems, sacred sites, and Gija Law, offering complex, contemporary expressions of identity, place, and survival. A skilled sculptor and craftsman, he also carves cultural tools, reaffirming his commitment to preserving Gija knowledge.
As a senior studio technician at Warmun Art Centre, Dwayne is a mentor and cultural anchor. He has exhibited across Western Australia and the Northern Territory and was named a 2024 Lester Prize finalist, recognition of his rising national influence. Now a finalist in the Collie and Burnie Art Prizes, with major exhibitions ahead, Dwayne Jessell is not only shaping the future of Gija art, he’s ensuring its power endures, inspiring generations through fearless storytelling and cultural strength.