3. Judy Watson Bauble 2025

Judy Watson, Acrylic paint on paper mache bauble, L 8cm, W 8cm, D 8cm. 

Judy Watson was born in Mundubbera, Queensland, and her Aboriginal matrilineal family is from Waanyi Country in north-west Queensland. Her practice evolves through engagement with site and memory, exploring Indigenous histories and tracing the emotional and physical landscapes that connect specific places and moments in time.

Judy’s bauble reflects her use of earth pigments to create layered meanings, a technique consistent with her broader artistic practice, even though acrylics are used here. A long-time friend and supporter of Aboriginal Art Co, she is an established artist whose work continues to inspire. Her 29-meter installation, Bloodlines: Weaving String and Water, on the façade of the Upper House, is a highlight of our monthly Footsteps: First Nations Walking Tour.

Judy’s distinguished career spans decades. She represented Australia at the Venice Biennale in 1997 and has held solo exhibitions including mudunama kundana wandaraba jarribirri at QAGOMA in 2024, and has many major public artworks across Australia. Her work is held in major collections such as the Tate Modern, the National Gallery of Australia and all Australian state galleries.

Judy Watson is represented by Milani Gallery.