“Decoy”, 2025

“Decoy” is a reflection on the lesser-known story of Kate Kelly, sister of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly. Often cast as a background figure in Australia’s colonial folklore, Kate’s role was far more active at times acting as a decoy for her brother, riding in disguise, and defying the expectations of her time. She stands not in defiance but in quiet strength symbolising the courage and complexity of women whose stories have often been sidelined in Australian history. Through a pared-back, expressionist style, I aim to evoke a dreamlike moment where the landscape holds secrets and silence speaks volumes.

Justine Taylor is a visual artist based in Bournda National Park, NSW. Her work explores the emotional connection to place through abstracted landscapes inspired by the Australian bush, wetlands, shifting light of her home environment, Australian history and folklore.
Working in acrylics and mixed media, Justine creates layered intuitive paintings that evoke memory and atmosphere. She was a finalist in the 2024
National Emerging Art Prize, selected for ACB Selects, and a finalist in the 2025 Doyles Landscape Award. Her work is held in private collections across Australia.