These depictions run as  a counter narrative to the all too frequent negative portrayals in mainstream media or the otherwise invisibility of Indigenous people through lack of representation in mainstream culture.

In “Awakening Spirit” Ruddy acknowledges the Indigenous Australian’s  that continue to remain invisible. These new portraits depict the faces of the nameless, the unknown, the survivors. These works aim to represent the voices that have gone unheard as well as those still present that are continuing to fight for their human rights. It is a work of recognition as to the resilience of a people, who maintain their cultural connection & sovereign responsibility to look after country, despite the great challenge of upholding their heritage in the face of continued colonisation and industrialisation.

Aboriginal Australian’s have experienced  a great collective trauma of loss and separation as a result of colonisation, and it is well documented that trauma remains chronic so long as social causes are not addressed. From a psychological perspective, validation in the course of and bearing witness is vital and necessary in the healing process.  So what if these stories remain unacknowledged?

We are compelled to address our discomfort and guilt when reflecting upon these questions. Art is a vehicle for us to bear witness and Ruddy through this work provides us an opportunity  to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and to raise and consider the questions that we may not yet have the answers to.