Aunty Patsy Doolan — 'Small & Large Basket', Woven Basket Set of 2 (2025)

"I began making Unique Aboriginal Designed Jewellery in 2021 as a way to cope with the stress of the COVID pandemic and work pressures. During this time, I communicated regularly with my sister about the pieces I was creating—the designs and the source of native materials I was using. I began incorporating emu feathers, echidna quills, quandong seeds, ininti seeds, red sandalwood seeds, gumnuts and other native seeds into my jewellery making.

Collecting these materials has been a deeply emotional experience, connecting me to both family and the land of my people. My art is an expression of this connection. I love what I do, and it brings me joy to see others happy with my work."

- Aunty Patsy Doolan (Barkindji)

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Aunty Patsy Doolan is a Barkindji/Paakantyi woman with extensive experience in community work. A highly respected and accomplished artisan, Aunty Patsy specialises in weaving and jewellery making, with her cultural practice and connection to Country deeply embedded in her art.

Aunty Patsy’s roles include involvement with the Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (LAECG), the Koori Courts, and Umalek Balit. She is Co-chair of Hands Up Mallee, and Chair of the Mildura Rural City Council’s Ngiwa Yarna Committee.

Aunty Patsy has dedicated herself to sharing knowledge and building connection and pride among First Nations people in the region. Through her practice, she demonstrates the power of art in fostering social change.

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Dancing Hands curated by Maya Hodge (Lardil)

Main Gallery

June 28 — August 2, 2025

Marking the fifth year of Craft's annual First Peoples-led exhibition series, Dancing Hands showcases six Aboriginal women artists at different stages of their careers working across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia. 

Through their craft, these artists illuminate the enduring strength of First Peoples' storytelling, culture and community. Each artist brings their unique experiences and creative approaches, contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary Aboriginal art and design. 

Learn more here

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Material: pine needles, jute string

Dimensions: Approx. 6 x 17cm diam, 4 x 13.5cm diam

Please note when purchasing, exhibition works are to be collected when exhibition closes.

Shipping costs may be estimates. Please feel free to contact shop@craft.org.au who will be available to provide an Art Courier quote or shipping costs for larger items.