Konstantina (Kate Constantine) is a proud Gadigal woman of the Eora Nation and a neo-contemporary Indigenous artist. Her practice reimagines the tradition of dot painting through a contemporary lens, sharing stories that deepen understanding of First Nations peoples, cultures and experiences.
Language, cultural heritage and truth-telling are central to Konstantina’s work. Through extensive research, she explores Gadigal histories that have been lost, displaced or misrepresented through colonisation. Her practice also encompasses collaboration with the University of Sydney to support the revitalisation of the Gadigal language.
Her artworks weave these histories together with her experiences as a mother, storyteller, artist and Aboriginal woman. They reflect her connection to Country, its animals and spirit, while expressing the challenges, inspiration and complexities of her daily life.
Working with acrylics, ochre, natural pigments and sticks gathered from the earth, Konstantina creates intricate works on paper and canvas, alongside large-scale public art. Her considered process involves hours of quiet mark-making, bringing personal narratives and cultural knowledge into each composition.
Based on Bundjalung Country with her husband and three children, Konstantina draws inspiration from the natural environment surrounding her family. Her advocacy for Aboriginal artists has also included serving as a Director of the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia.