SOUTHERN River College student Taya Parfitt has enhanced her reputation as a promising artist after she was recognised at the NAIDOC Awards Ceremony.
Parfitt received the 2018 Encouragement Award in recognition of her outstanding talents as a young artist and a leader.
It followed her Young Australian Indigenous Artist of the Year award at the Young Australia Art Awards last year.
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READ NOWPariftt said she was not expecting the award and it was just special to be nominated.
“When I found out I had won, it was shocking because I didn’t think I would win, but also felt really happy and proud,” she said.
“Art will always be part of my life, but being noticed for my art is amazing.”
Parfitt is currently working on numerous pieces for her first full collection and said she was proud to be recognised for her artwork.
“I’m hoping my award will inspire other people to try new things, you can do anything if you put your mind to it,” she said.
“NAIDOC celebrations help people learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and are really important, so to be included in this year’s NAIDOC awards means a lot.”