Artist Thelma Beeton is a strong, proud Palawa-Trinvana-Djilang-Wadawurrung woman with kinship to Taungurung, and a direct descendant of Mannalargenna, leader and warrior of lutruwita (Tasmania). She grew up on Wamba Wamba country and currently lives and creates on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung country and Bunurong Wurrung country.
Her exhibition, Takariliya—meaning "family" in the Palawa language—centres on her maternal family (starting with her grandparents and finishing with her great-nephew), as well as the culture of her people – the Palawa people, who originate from truwana (Cape Barren Island) off the northeast coast of Tasmania.
Thelma's creative practice is a deep exploration of her culture, through which she enhances her understanding of her people's traditions. She recognises the profound influence her family has had in shaping her cultural identity. In depicting her family, Thelma hopes to inspire her relatives to reconnect with and embrace their shared culture.
Driven by a passion to inspire younger generations, she has developed a distinctive and contemporary painting style that incorporates bold lines and vibrant backgrounds, often featuring her rraykana (emu) totem in ways designed to evoke joy. The exhibition also marks a personal milestone in her artistic journey, reflecting progress both in her practice and in her personal growth, standing as a testament to her dedication to positive action.