Q&A: Danielle Leedie Gray

There are rich stories behind your artwork, tell us about the symbols you use and why they are important in your work?

The symbols tell a story. They replace verbal language and are an important part of Indigenous cultures. Without them (symbols) I would not be able to connect with others through my Indigenous heritage.

How did you end up working with digital illustration as your primary medium and how is it significant for you as an artist?

It has been a journey. There have been many factors which have influenced me to choose digital over any other medium when it came to art. I had briefly experienced working in positions which required me to work digitally which sparked my interest and from there I began doing it in my own free time.

How does living in Brisbane influence your creative practice?

I think you are exposed to more culturally. There are so many opportunities to experience in Brisbane which influences me creatively.

You recently collaborated with local jewellery label, Moe Moe on an exclusive range for MoB Shop. What was it like to work with Moe Moe on the range?

Moe Moe were great to work with. They were very good at creating something that I would never have thought of myself. They really inspired me apply my work in different ways.

I will forever cherish the stories my Grandmother tells me about growing up in Augathella in her Yumba, meaning home and/or hometown. Her demeanour changes as she speaks of her father and my great-grandfather Victor Johnson, building the biggest Yumba for their family. She tells me this story with such excitement, and I can tell how proud she is. In researching Brisbane’s indigenous history, I discovered a significant Yumba was located at Musgrave Park. This piece is an illustrated representation or map of that traditional camp featuring the pregnancy camp, the menstruation camp, the families camp, young men’s camp and young women’s camp, the dance circle, drinking spot, cleaning spot and the male and female toilet spots.

What does a day in the life of Danielle look like? Tell us about your creative process.

It really depends on what I am working on. when I first read a brief, I always sketch or brainstorm as I go, this gives me first impressions without over thinking.

Next step is research, which is a big component in what I do, this normally consists of looking online, visiting the local library, visiting different locations or going through my own collection of inspiration.

Career highlight to date?

My first mural. It was 21m long and the most challenging job I had done. But I am glad I got to experience it and gave me a newfound respect for artists that work at that scale.