Artist Spotlight: Meet Tayla-Dehne Donaczy

We're excited to introduce Tayla-Dehne Donaczy, a Mutthi Mutthi artist whose creative journey transforms healing into hope. As the newest member of our artist collective, Tayla brings fresh energy and profound stories to BW Tribal through artwork that bridges past and present.

Healing Through Art

Three years ago, Tayla picked up a paintbrush seeking solace. With family members affected by the Stolen Generation, she faced the challenge of reconnecting with cultural stories and knowledge that had been disrupted. What started as personal therapy blossomed into something extraordinary: a powerful connection to her ancestors and a commitment to preserving cultural wisdom for coming generations.

Pictured: Tayla and her series, 'The River People'  - inspired by The Murray River

Getting to Know Tayla

Your Mob/Country connection? "Mutthi Mutthi mob"

Can you tell us about yourself and your journey? "I am on a journey of self-discovery, learning and connecting with culture. This path has been challenging, as multiple members of my family were affected by the Stolen Generation, leaving little knowledge and few stories to be passed down. Painting became a way to bridge that gap—a means to connect with ancestors and learn the art of storytelling through visual expression. This journey is ongoing, a way to explore identity, share messages, and deepen cultural connection through every brushstroke.

My mission is to ensure that knowledge and stories are passed down to the next generation, keeping culture alive within the family. Through paint and expression, I am reclaiming lost stories and creating new ones for the future."

What inspires your artwork? "Family, The land, sky, water, community and my Nan"

How did your artistic journey begin? "I began my artistic journey almost 3 years ago now, I used this as therapy and it has evolved as I deepen my connection and learn about my Culture."

What themes and stories do you explore through your work? "Healing, Learning, Genuine appreciation and Connection to one another."

Your preferred artistic mediums? "Acrylic, POSCA"

Featured Works

KIKI III

(pronounced "Key-Key" meaning "All together" in Tayla’s language group)

"Inspired by my beautiful Mum who brought me up to love my neighbours, and lend a hand when it's needed. To pickup a person who is down and work together to create a better culture, whether that's at work, in my personal life or in the community. This is a story about community and all the different gatherings that occur within. Building friendships, sharing stories and sharing the love!

Throughout the design you will see multiple gathering places representing different groups a person will come across along their journey, within these groups you are making genuine connections with one another. The colours used for the artwork are bright and bring a positive sense of belonging and happiness. This design is one from seven out of my exclusive KIKI collection."

-Tayla-Dehne Donaczy

Continuing Our Legacy 

Tayla's latest work responds to the 2025 NAIDOC theme. This piece weaves multiple storylines representing our collective journey to connect, learn, teach, and love while passing wisdom to future generations.

"Inspired by the 2025 NAIDOC theme. A piece that brings powerful connection to the next generation. Throughout the artwork are multiple storylines representing the journey we are all on – to connect, learn, teach & love, and passing this knowledge down to the generation after us. The sun and moon symbolise our ancestors guiding us and protecting us along our paths – while the hands represent connection and belonging. The Emu tracks to symbolise our generation and the generations after us moving forward in a strong and determined light. A piece that was created to represent a brighter future for all."

- Tayla-Dehne Donaczy

Looking Forward 

Tayla-Dehne artwork reminds us that cultural connection isn't just about looking back; it's about creating pathways forward. Her designs and heartfelt storytelling ensures ancestral voices continue resonating while inspiring new narratives for tomorrow.

Welcome to the BW Tribal family, Tayla! We can't wait to see how your artistic journey continues unfolding. Shop Tayla's collection now and carry these powerful stories of connection, healing, and hope with you wherever you go.

Follow Tayla

Instagram: tayladonaczy_art

Facebook: Tayla Donaczy Art

TikTok: tayladonaczy_art