First Nations artist, Anthony ‘Boy’ Turnbull reveals story behind eye-capturing painting at Chinchilla Cultural Precinct

A renowned First Nations artist, with the help of students from Chinchilla State High, has revealed an exciting painting at a recently opened cultural precinct on the Western Downs. Here’s the story behind the art.

Anthony Boy Turnbull reveals artwork at Chinchilla Cultural Precinct 2023. Picture: WDRC

The revitalised cultural precinct in Chinchilla officially opened last month and one of the main attractions, a painting by a renowned First Nations artist, has garnered a lot of attention for its storytelling.

Artist Anthony ‘Boy’ Turnbull started painting at age 16 and said he hoped the Chinchilla High School staff and students who assisted him throughout the process of creating ‘Chinchilla on Charley’s’ painting were as excited as he was for the unveiling.

The piece depicts Charley’s Creek, Rocky Creek and the Condamine River surrounded by flora and fauna, including a tall ghost gum, sunset and a starry night sky.

The Mithaka man, who was raised in Chinchilla, said he hoped people who visited the precinct would reflect on the area and learn how Charley’s Creek got its name.

The location was named after Aboriginal guide Charley Fisher, who accompanied explorer Ludwig Leichhardt on his expeditions in the mid 1840s.

The artist discussed his personal journey with art after Aboriginal artist Vincent Serico mentored him.

“He saw something in me and I took to it straight away,” Mr Turnbull said.

“I just hope some people get some appreciation for the work, and for the students that were involved and their families, I hope they enjoy seeing it too.”

In 2016, Mr Turnbull came back home to Chinchilla after travelling to reveal his first exhibition called Reflections of the Past which included stories told to him by elders, shared through his paintings. 

The artist is one of 19 who is currently featuring in Lapunyah Gallery’s exhibition ‘Regeneration’ which will reopen January 8 until February 21 in 2024.

Originally published as First Nations artist, Anthony ‘Boy’ Turnbull reveals story behind eye-capturing painting at Chinchilla Cultural Precinct