Chern’ee Sutton a contemporary Aboriginal artist and proud Kalkadoon woman deeply immersed in her culture and history, a passion that resonates through her art, mentored in artistic techniques by her Mother she ignited her passion for painting at a very young age. Her talent was not only evident but also celebrated as she triumphed in numerous local art competitions winning her first open art competition at the tender age of 13 beating seasoned artists. Her first art exhibition was at Queensland’s Parliament House where she was labelled by media as a reconciliation artist and “The Next Big Thing” at 13 years of age. This early recognition of her artistic prowess is a beacon of inspiration, a testament to her dedication and talent, also being commissioned for several artworks, all while still in school. 

Due to Chern’ee’s passion for reconciliation and equality she has received a plethora of accolades including National NAIDOC Youth of The Year, Australia Day Awards, Queensland Pride of Australia Award, Local NAIDOC Awards including Artist of the Year among others, a tribute to a young woman’s passion to reconcile her nation through her art. Held in the highest esteem she has been a Queensland Tourism Industry Council Ambassador for several years, a Queensland Day Ambassador for the Arts for the past two years and a Queensland Reconciliation Awards Ambassador, a testament to her influence and high regard.

Chern’ee’s artistic journey has been marked by an abundance of prestigious collaborations and commissions. She has worked with esteemed organizations such as Australia Post, Amazon Australia, Queensland Police, ACCOR Hotels, Queensland PCYC, Reconciliation Australia, Tourism & Events Queensland, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, RIO Tinto, Bunnings, Brambles and CHEP among others.

Chern’ee’s art has inspired athletes around the world working with high profile sporting organizations including 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, 2018 Commonwealth Games, The Australian Commonwealth Games Team, Tennis Australia, The National Rugby League, National Basketball League, Former Origin Greats Queensland, Australian Cricket, Essendon AFL and Australian Cycling among others.

Chern’ee’s artworks have been commissioned by a multitude of Local, State and Federal Government Departments including The Australian Defence Force, The Australian Tax Department, The Department of Veteran Affairs, The Queensland State Library, The Australian Public Service Commission, The Australian Department of Health, The Royal Australian Mint and Queensland Government House among others. These partnerships and commissions have not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of these organizations but also served as powerful mediums to communicate their values and messages, a validation to the recognition and respect her art commands.

Chern’ee has a painting hanging in Queensland Parliament House on the reconciliation level, a prestigious honour that underscores the recognition her art has received. Chern’ee has designed the NRL’s Indigenous All-Stars Jerseys for four years, a testament to her ongoing partnership with one of Australia’s most prominent sporting organizations. In collaboration with The Australian Defence Force and Royal Australian Mint, she created a new Indigenous Military Service $2.00 coin featuring her artwork. She also collaborated with Australia Post to create an Indigenous Military Service Stamp and Coin Set, a significant recognition of her work by a national postal service. Chern’ee created the Aboriginal story and markings on Borobi, the mascot for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and was chosen as the only Aboriginal artist to create several artworks for the FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup again prominently placing her artwork and cultural heritage on the world stage.

Two of Chern’ee’s artworks, which are now part of the prestigious Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace, the inclusion of her artworks in such a renowned collection is a demonstration of their artistic and cultural significance, and a testament to Chern’ee’s talent and recognition in the art world.

Chern’ee Sutton is an incredibly talented artist who paints captivating stories of her people. Each painting is a unique masterpiece showcasing her exceptional colour, composition, and texture skills. Her artwork takes you on a visual journey, with rich, intricate narratives that testify to her creativity.