James "Gurri" Dungay

James was born in Kempsey Hospital and raised on Burnt Bridge Mission. He is one of 8 children.

James went to Burnt Bridge Public School, East Kempsey Primary School and Kempsey High School and spent a lot of time in the bush with family, fishing and hunting.

James trained as a boilermaker and studied draughtsmanship which triggered his interest in drawing and illustration.

Inspired by his Uncles in the 1980s, James started making carved artefacts including clapsticks, boomerangs and coolamons.

Harvesting local timbers from Country, James was determined to keep his families art making traditions alive.

James took up painting in the 1990s and prides himself on his cultural heritage and truth-telling.

James’ paintings feature strong composition and bold designs and tell stories of traditional Aboriginal life.

He likes the idea of his artwork teaching others of about Aboriginal culture.

James’ artwork has been included in various exhibitions across New South Wales and has been entered in to a number of art competitions.

James regularly does Aboriginal education projects and runs culture workshops with local schools.

He is also a renowned gum leaf player, singer and musician.