Supporting Artists & Communities
100% Indigenous Owned
Family Owned & Operated
Meet one of our new collaborating artists, Nathan Patterson. Nathan has been making waves in the contemporary art scene for years, and we couldn’t be more stoked to have him join the BW Tribal family! A proud Wagiman man, Nathan's roots trace back to Pine Creek near the Daly River Region in the Northern Territory. However, he now calls the picturesque South Coast of Victoria home, drawing inspiration from both his ancestral lands and his coastal surroundings.
Born in 1981 in Preston, Victoria, Nathan's journey as an artist is as unique as his artwork. Adopted by white parents, he first met his biological mother at the age of 15 - a pivotal moment that would shape his artistic path. It was during his teenage years that Nathan's passion for painting first emerged, leading him to study Fine Arts at RMIT, Melbourne in 2002.
Nathan's art is an energetic blend of contemporary designs and traditional techniques, weaving together the Dreamtime stories of his people with a modern twist. His bold use of vibrant colours and innovative approach to traditional designs sets him apart in the world of Aboriginal art.
Nature plays a significant role in Nathan's creative process. Often inspired by animals, the ocean, and the country’s rugged landscapes, this connection to the natural world shines through in all of Nathan’s artwork, which often features intricate depictions of native Australian flora and fauna.
Nathan's talent hasn't gone unnoticed in the sporting world either. He achieved the remarkable feat of designing AFL Dreamtime guernseys for Collingwood, Essendon, and Richmond!
The Dreamtime guernseys series is a celebration of Indigenous culture within the AFL, and the specially designed guernseys play a crucial role in this recognition. Nathan's designs for these jerseys beautifully incorporate traditional Indigenous motifs and storytelling with each club's identity, creating unique pieces that resonate with players and fans alike.
Through his dedication and talent, Nathan has established a thriving art and design enterprise, Diwana Dreaming. This venture has not only allowed him to pursue his passion full-time but has also become a platform for showcasing his unique artistic vision. Diwana Dreaming represents the culmination of Nathan's journey, blending his cultural heritage with contemporary design to create pieces that resonate with art lovers and businesses alike. His success with this company is a testament to both his artistic skill and his entrepreneurial spirit, cementing his place as a respected figure in the Indigenous Australian art scene. With ambitions for national and international touring exhibitions, Nathan is keen to take his art to a global audience.
For those eager to experience Nathan's artwork firsthand, his pieces can be viewed and purchased through his Facebook page and Instagram pages:
@diwanadreaming
