Tori Donnelly is a young, aspiring artist and one of the most delightful additions to the White Bluff Project team of creatives. Her quiet wisdom and her enthusiasm for discovery and learning has been infectious for all those who have had a chance to work with her.
She is influenced by stories, and her indigenous heritage. She is inspired by the biosphere and the ecosystem that is White Bluff.
“Growing up I felt everything was consumed in commercialisation, with little to no meaning. I find myself now as an artist trying to grasp the concept of a meaningful and expressive way to live, connect and create,” says Tori. “My works often focus on connection.'“
Tori’s connection to White Bluff came from visiting the site and immersing herself in its natural features, exploring the headland forest, sitting on the sand beneath the pandani while chatting quietly to other participants.
“I initially became involved in the project out of curiosity, to see if science and art can meet in the middle and create a world of wonder. It’s been an exciting experience. Thoughts of…what will I learn today? What will we create?
“I first visited the site after speaking with Ray. He spoke passionately about the Bluff and what it means to him. Initially, I went to just get a feel for the place and I found myself drawing on its uniqueness, focusing on the cliff face, wildlife and plants.”
What attracted Tori to the Project was also the chance to work with other local artists.
“What’s not to love about a bunch of local people getting together, sharing their knowledge, specialities and collaboratively working together to create something beautiful. I think it’s magic and I wanted to be a part of it. I usually work entirely on my own but I can say that after this experience, I’m converted! Collaboration is the way to go. I would highly recommend it to any artist.
“In the final exhibition, I hope the community will see this meaningful local collaboration and be inspired to do the same. “
Throughout the White Bluff Project journey, Tori has also been amazed at how science has also reinforced many of the stories she finds in her Gumbaynggirr heritage. A previous article, available on our website (click here) illuminates this exciting journey. Some of that learning and knowledge has infiltrated her final collaborative artworks.
“I paint, create, collaborate and enjoy the process,” says Tori.
And soon, it is time for everyone to enjoy the results, to share in the process and the exciting culminations of that process, to see their local environment through the eyes of art and science - The White Bluff Project opens at Coffs Harbour Regional Art Gallery on 30 October 2021.