Out on the Horizon
“When we go fishing, we stay until sundown, where we can watch the sun go down and the dark clouds are forming out on the horizon. If we stay there until after dark the mozzies will bite…that’s why we make a big fire to hunt them away and cook some fish, crabs and cockle shells.”
Wendy Warrie
Wendy Warrie is a Kariyarra and Yindjibarndi woman living at Cheeditha Community near Roebourne in Western Australia’s Pilbara. She has been painting since 2001 and is a member of the Cheeditha Art Group, sharing stories of Country, culture, family and community through her art.
Wendy’s artistic journey began with the story of the Barrimirndi (Rainbow Serpent), a significant Yindjibarndi creation story that has remained an important foundation of her practice. The story tells of Barrimirndi travelling through the landscape when the land was still soft, forming the Fortescue River and shaping the Country along its journey.
While the Rainbow Serpent story was the beginning of Wendy’s journey as an artist, her practice has continued to grow and evolve. Today, her artworks tell a broader range of stories drawn from her experiences, memories, connection to Country and life in the Pilbara. Her work captures the people, places, landscapes and everyday moments that hold meaning for her and her community.
Wendy was the Signature Artist for Colours of our Country in 2023, and we are proud to welcome her back as the Signature Artist for 2026.
Her 2026 Signature Artwork draws on memories of fishing on Country, watching the sun disappear over the horizon, gathering around a fire and sharing fish, crabs and cockles together. It reflects the importance of connection, tradition and the simple experiences shared with family and community.
Through her art, Wendy continues to share stories of the Pilbara in her own way, celebrating the enduring connection between people, culture and Country.
Cheeditha Art Group
Wendy Warrie is part of Cheeditha Art Group. Cheeditha Art Group celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Pilbara region through their vibrant Aboriginal art collective. Each piece reflects the deep connection to the land and the traditions that inspire their work, making every item a meaningful addition to any collection
