Paddy Bedford facts for kids

Paddy Bedford (around 1922 – 14 July 2007) was an important Indigenous Australian artist. He was also known as "Goowoomji". Paddy came from Warmun in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. He was one of only eight Australian artists chosen to create art for the famous Musée du quai Branly in Paris, France.

Paddy Bedford's Life Story

Paddy Bedford was born in the East Kimberley area around 1922. He got his surname from the Bedford Downs Station, a large property where he was born. Life was very challenging for Paddy and his family. This was due to the difficult times faced by Indigenous Australians in the early 1900s.

Paddy's parents survived many hardships. They were often forced to leave their homes. Paddy himself faced health challenges when he was young. Later, when he had his own family, some children were separated from their parents.

Like many Indigenous men in the Kimberley, Paddy worked as a stockman. This meant he helped manage cattle on large farms. However, he was often paid only with food and supplies, not money. In 1969, a new law said that all workers, Black and White, should get equal pay. After this, many station owners let go of their Indigenous workers, including Paddy. He then worked building roads for a while. Later, an injury meant he had to rely on welfare support.

Paddy Bedford is remembered by his large family. This includes his two daughters.

Paddy Bedford's Art Journey

Paddy Bedford was familiar with body-painting from a young age. This is a traditional form of art. He started painting on canvas around 1998. He painted alongside other artists from the Warmun and Turkey Creek areas. They were encouraged by a former art gallery owner named Tony Oliver.

Paddy was one of the artists who owned Jirrawun Arts. This company was set up to help Indigenous artists in the Kimberley. It helped them create and sell their artworks. Paddy's art was featured in a major exhibition. This show was held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney from 2006 to 2007.

Paddy Bedford's paintings are still very popular. They are among the most sought-after artworks in Australia. Some of his designs have even been used on airplanes. These planes are part of Qantas’ special Indigenous Flying Art series.

Paddy's paintings often show landscapes. They are inspired by the land around him. His art was also influenced by another famous artist, Rover Thomas. Paddy's work uses traditional techniques and symbols. These are common in central and western desert art. However, his art also tells stories about the relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. He also painted about important historical events that happened in his country.