About the Artist
Debbie Scott
Debbie Scott is a self-taught contemporary Aboriginal artist and a descendant on her mother's side of the Ugarapul Peoples of Ipswich and the Ngugi Peoples of Mulgumpin (Moreton Island, Quandamooka) who are now part of Quandamooka on Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island)
Debbie was born and schooled in Ipswich (North Ispwich State School, Ipswich State School, and Bremer State School). She also played hockey for her school, City and State. She still has close ties with Ipswich though her friends and family, with her Grandchildren attending schools in Ipswich.
Debbie began her art journey in 1986 when her neighbour, the accomplished pen-and-ink artist Stella Gibbs, encouraged her to draw from her culture and share her stories. Debbie launched herself wholeheartedly into this new venture, which is still her passion today. Debbie has also branched into mixed-media art, using multiple mediums to create her work.
Debbie draws inspiration from her rich cultural heritage and how it explains the mysteries of God. She believes in the unity between humanity and the natural world and believes in being one with the land.
She enjoys sharing stories through her artwork and cultural exchange. During a 2018 visit to Penzhou, China (Ipswich’s sister city), Debbie connected with a global collective of creators. Being around artists from around the world, Debbie witnessed firsthand how international eyes view Australian Aboriginal art with profound reverence. Today, she views her paintings as vital educational tools, inviting all Australians to celebrate the legacy of the world’s oldest living culture.