Australian Art Collective – Art for Everyone | Australian Aboriginal Art Gallery

Bernadine Johnson

Bernadine Johnson presents her interpretation of Medicine Leaves—a sacred plant used by Aboriginal people for healing and protection. The painting draws on knowledge passed down through generations from her family’s Country in Central Australia.

The leaves depicted are those of the Alyawarr bush medicine plant, traditionally used to treat cuts, rashes, bites, and respiratory conditions, and also known for its ceremonial and spiritual properties. Through a flowing pattern of fine brushstrokes, Bernadine creates a hypnotic sense of movement—symbolising the plant’s life force and its power to regenerate and restore.