My Story
Introduction
My name is Alkira Dryden, and I am a proud Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung woman. From a young age, I was surrounded by the rich stories of my ancestors, lovingly passed down by my father. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to deeply understand the importance of connection—to land, to family, and to the enduring traditions of our people. These connections shape who I am and continue to guide my journey.
Family and Heritage
I come from a large and loving family on my father’s side, many of whom live in Shepparton. The stories my father has shared have played a vital role in shaping my understanding of our heritage. These stories have given me a strong sense of identity and pride in my culture—something I carry with me in everything I do.
Passion for Painting
Art has always been part of my life. From an early age, I found painting to be a powerful way to express myself and my culture. My passion truly blossomed during my VCE years at Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar, where I developed a deeper understanding of artistic expression, colour, and the spiritual connection between my work and my cultural roots.
High School Achievements
One of my proudest moments was creating a large painting for my Year 12 final piece, which was chosen to be featured on the cover of our yearbook. This was not only an artistic achievement, but also a moment where I was able to share a piece of my culture and story with my peers.
University Life and Artistic Growth
I went on to study Business and Public Relations at university while continuing to grow as an artist. Throughout my studies, I created commissioned artworks and found ways to combine my professional learning with my passion for storytelling through art.
Community Work and the Future
I now work at the First Peoples’ Assembly, where I am proud to engage with community every day. Meeting mob, listening to their stories, and being part of something greater than myself is both inspiring and fulfilling. I look forward to continuing this journey—through art, through connection, and through community.
