Carmen French was raised in Grafton and is a descendent of the Gumbaingerri nation of Northern New South Wales. Her art is inspired by personal experiences and stories passed onto her by her family - I feel that through my art I can express my aboriginality and share my culture with everyone.

Carmen is a member of Durahrwa Cooperative, an organization owned and operated by indigenous people of Northern NSW.

The Durahrwa umbrella covers a wide range of social and commercial programs all aimed at improving the quality of life and opening up future opportunities for aboriginal people through development and training with an innovative approach.

Clarence River Catch - This design is of the beautiful Clarence river on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. The style I use in this design is from above looking down on the river scene. The design depicts the men out on the river fishing in their canoes, the round campsites, and the lines are the currents in the river.
Design and story by Carmen French
Gathering of the Hunters - This design depicts the elders teaching the younger members how to hunt and gather food for their tribe. The elders show the types of food which are available within their tribal boundaries.
The passing down of traditional knowledge on hunting and gathering is the basis of survival in this harsh land. This is how the culture and the people are preserved.
Design and story by Carmen French