Jacob McKenzie

Jacob McKenzie is an Aṉangu artist and respected community leader who paints and creates with Ninuku Arts. He is a member of the Ninuku Arts Board, Chairperson of PY Media, and works as a Warru Ranger with APY Land Management. He is a father and loving tjamu (grandfather), with a strong commitment to supporting the next generation.

Jacob paints his Spiderweb Tjukurpa, a story that speaks to the strength of Aṉangu culture and the importance of keeping culture strong into the future. The web represents the connections that surround and support Aṉangu: family, Country, culture and Tjukurpa. Through his paintings, Jacob shares this story as a way of teaching and encouraging younger generations to stay connected and strong.

Jacob has also been a driving force behind Ninuku Arts’ Men’s Day program. He has encouraged young people, particularly young men, to spend time at the Art Centre, learn from senior men and become involved in making art. For Jacob, painting is not only about telling story, but about creating opportunities for younger Aṉangu to learn, participate and carry culture forward.