Brett Nannup

Noongar printmaker Brett Nannup carries forward a rich artistic lineage, having been introduced to the craft by his mother, the renowned Noongar artist Laurel Nannup. Brett’s work is deeply personal, exploring identity, cultural connection, and the duality of living between Noongar and Western worlds. Known for his intricate linocut engraving style, Brett’s practice reflects a deep commitment to storytelling, cultural continuity, and connection to country.

His latest work, ‘Gumap and Gudbru’, transforms one of his deeply rooted printmaking narratives into a monumental sculpture. Telling the story shared by Barry McGuire of two seal brothers, Gumap and Gudbru, the artwork captures their playful bond and movement through the water. Two interwoven Kylee (boomerangs) twist dynamically through the air, symbolizing not only the brothers’ journey but also the broader dualities that shape Noongar life: light and dark, day and night, sky and moon. Beneath them, a circular plinth grounds the work to the land, its zig-zag shield patterns represents protection through the passing down of knowledge. Story, song, and dance sustain respect for country across generations.

Nearby, Meeyak (the moon) shines through the bleachers, with 14 circular symbols representing the 14 Noongar clan groups—a reminder of unity, the guidance of elders, and the ongoing responsibility to care for community and country. ‘Gumap and Gudbru’ is a powerful bridge between past, present, and future: a continuation of Noongar knowledge made solid.

Standing at over 3.4 meters tall and weighing around 350 kilograms, ‘Gumap and Gudbru’ is a remarkable work in both storytelling and craftsmanship. Each Kylee, soaring to 3.2 meters high, was cast in high-grade aluminium to ensure strength, durability, and the ability to capture Brett’s signature detailed linework. His intricate designs were hand-etched onto the surface and enhanced using a paint rub technique, creating a striking contrast between smooth, polished high points and textured, carved details.

The circular plinth, measuring 3.2 meters in diameter, was also cast in aluminium, with zig-zag shield motifs CNC-milled from Brett’s original sketches before being etched into the metal. Even the Meeyak moon elements were crafted with the same care—Brett’s hand-drawn designs were digitized, routed into the bleachers, and paint-filled to ensure a lasting visual impact. Every step, from material selection to fabrication at our Brisbane workshop, was undertaken with deep respect for Brett’s vision, ensuring that this artwork will endure for generations to come.