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Elaine Chambers-Hegarty

Artistic talent runs through Elaine’s bloodline. She is inspired by the nurturing influence of her parents and grandparents, her love of her culture, her family, and a 30-year career in print media.

Elaine Chambers-Hegarty is an incredibly talented Aboriginal artist and designer, with cultural links to the Koa (Guwa), Kuku Yalanji, and Barada Barna peoples. With over 30 years of experience, Elaine blends traditional cultural themes with contemporary design to create meaningful, vibrant artworks.

Elaine’s artistic journey began with inspiration from her parents and grandparents, whose nurturing ways instilled in her a deep respect for her heritage. Her love for her culture and passion for art led her to pursue a career in graphic design right after school, allowing her to combine her creative skills with modern technology.

Throughout her career, Elaine has worked with numerous well-known organisations, including the Brisbane Broncos, Cronulla Sharks, and Institute of Urban Indigenous Health, receiving accolades such as the PANPA Award for Creative Excellence and winning the 2015 NAIDOC poster design competition.

At YarnnUp, Elaine brings stories to life through art, transforming cultural narratives into powerful visual expressions. She is passionate about her role in fostering connection and engagement with Australia’s First Nations culture, using her creativity to inspire and create positive cultural impact.

Where do you feel your place or ‘home’ is?

My home is with my husband Matthew, we live on the northside of Brisbane (Meeajin), and I acknowledge the Jagera people and the Turrbal people who are the Traditional Custodians of Meanjin (Brisbane) where I was born, and have been back here living for the past 15 years. But we lived on the Sunshine Coast on Kabi Kabi country for over 10 years, where we always said we’d go back to live one day – maybe retire there.

Who are the most important people in your world?

My family. My daughter Patrice, my husband Matthew, plus Mum and Kerry who live close by, as well as my brothers and their families. And we have No.1 watching over us… That’s Dad.

What is something you love doing?

I guess it is being a Volunteer at our Indigenous football club – Brisbane Natives. My family had been involved since I was a kid, and now I am the secretary. But it’s the community around it. Seeing other mob and yarning with them, and making new friendships. Just seeing family growth and getting to know what people are doing in community. We’ve made life long friendships there, so I guess that is one of my passions. Because if we aren’t either busy working or being with family, we are probably busy doing work for the club.
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