The Journey She Carries - Koorliny Koort Yokiny

 

This story is centred on our very own Janine, one of the most inspiring, courageous and selfless women I have ever met. We love you, Nene.

The story of her journey through family, love, loss, motherhood and connection. Beginning in the bottom left meeting place, we see a childhood- growing up alongside her Mum, Dad and Sister on Phillip Island, represented by the flowing ocean beside them. Within the water are four turtles, each symbolising a member of the family. Turtles represent Mother Earth, wisdom, guidance and resilience, carrying their home within them wherever they travel- like Janine, who has carried the love and values of her family throughout every stage of life.

One turtle journey’s away from the others, representing the passing of Freddy. His spirit line travels upward into the stars, although he is no longer physically here, he continues to guide, watch over and protect his family from the spirit world. His passing will have a lasting impact and stands as a significant part of Janine’s narrative and strength.

Journey lines weave throughout, representing the many paths Janine has taken across her life and symbolising the eternal wanderer and traveller within. From growing up on an island surrounded by ocean and family, to travelling the world, living in Thailand as a young woman, moving across Australia to Perth for university, and eventually building a life with the boy next door who became her husband. These journey lines lead into the large central meeting place, representing the home she and Ryan have created together with their two children- a home built on love, honesty, respect, resilience and deep family connection.

Connected nearby is Ryan’s family meeting place, showing the important bond between both families. His parents, siblings and family connections are represented here, along with the spirit of Kevin watching from the stars above. This honours not only bloodlines, but the joining of families, stories and shared journeys.

Meeting places in the bottom right and upper sections represent the communities and friendships she has gathered through life. Single scattered U-shapes symbolise the many people she has connected with during her journey, some remaining close, others only briefly crossing, but all shaping and influencing her world. Janine naturally brings people together, creating spaces filled with warmth, laughter and connection.

Birthing caves symbolise the sacred connection between mother and children, honouring Janine’s role as a mother and protector. Journey lines extending from Harper and Tommy show them growing, exploring and eventually forging their own paths in life, while always remaining connected to home and family. These lines returning to the central meeting place symbolise that no matter where life takes them, they will always return carrying the love, guidance and strength their parents have given them.

The Kangaroo tracks move through the painting and towards the watering hole, symbolising protection, nurturing and the fierce love parents have for their children. Boomerangs represent strength and resilience, while the sun reflects Janine’s warmth, leadership and love for summer and light. The rainbow symbolises the bridge between the physical and spirit worlds, a reminder that loved ones who have passed continue to walk beside us.

Crossing paw prints represent both Mac, who was once part of the family and has since passed on from their journey, and Herbie, the much-loved dog who continues to walk alongside them now. Hibiscus flowers are woven in representing beauty, femininity and personal identity, while foliage, trees and flowing natural elements reflect her deep love of nature, the ocean and escaping into this beautiful country.

At its heart, this painting is about connection, journey and enduring resilience. Connection to family, to spirit, to community, to motherhood and to home. It tells the story of a woman who has carried love, strength and guidance through every stage of life, and who hopes above all else that her children grow into the world proud of where they come from, confident in who they are, and forever connected to the people who love them most.