Vale Cheryl Blore

West Darling Arts is deeply saddened by the passing of Barkindji artist, advocate, teacher and friend, Cheryl Blore.

Cheryl was a valued member of the West Darling Arts Board and a much-loved artist we had the privilege of working with over many years. Based in Menindee, Cheryl’s creative practice was deeply connected to Barkindji Country, community, culture and the Baaka/Darling River.

Cheryl worked across painting, making, visual arts, weaving and textiles, and was also known for her powerful protest work about the river in Menindee. Her art carried truth, care and urgency. It spoke to the deep relationship between people, land and water, and to the devastating impacts felt by communities when Country is unwell.

Of the plight of the Baaka Cheryl said: “It is frustrating, sad and hurtful to see the river like this; the water is our blood, and without water we die. If our land is sick, then we are sick. The health of the river impacts on our mental health and on our elders. The fight will go on.”

These words reflect the strength and clarity Cheryl brought to her art, her advocacy and her life.

Cheryl was a passionate advocate for Indigenous land and water rights, and a generous cultural teacher. She welcomed and taught many artists who came through town, sharing knowledge, stories and a strong sense of responsibility to place. For many, Cheryl helped deepen an understanding of the Far West and of the Baaka as a living, vital presence.

Cheryl exhibited work in the Baaka Stories Exhibition at West Darling Arts in 2019 and continued to contribute to the artistic and cultural life of the region through her practice, advocacy, mentorship and leadership.

We acknowledge Cheryl’s important contribution to West Darling Arts, to the communities of Menindee and the Far West, and to the ongoing fight for the health of the Baaka.

We send our love and deepest condolences to Cheryl’s family, friends, community and all who knew and loved her.

Vale Cheryl Blore.

IMAGE: Cheryl Blore projected on the riverbank in 'Pangala' by Vic McEwan