In celebration of NAIDOC Week 2024, Gunditjmara, Wemba Wemba and Yorta Yorta artist Tommy Day III was commissioned by Vicinity to create a mural representative of his Country. “Mirring Leerpeen - Countries Song,” is the artist’s ode to Country and the songs that have been sung across it. The suite of works depicts the waterways and landscape shaped over countless generations.

Tommy Day is a Gunditjmara, Wemba Wemba, and Yorta Yorta man and a multidisciplinary artist based in Shepparton, Victoria. Through his art, Tommy captures the essence of country, weaving the rich memories of his heritage into vivid and evocative landscapes. His work seamlessly combines traditional and contemporary art forms, painting from an Aboriginal perspective that reflects the harmony between animals, people, and spirits.

For Tommy, the essence of country is everything. His memories as a young Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta, and Wemba Wemba man are intricately woven into his art, creating a tapestry that unfolds with the changing seasons. This dynamic interplay leaves an indelible mark on the land while maintaining its constant essence.

Through his artistic lens, Tommy envisions a world where spirits live in harmony with people and animals. His work is a visual voice that acknowledges the past and embraces a bright future for his community. The magic of country, with its transformative power, is a recurring theme in his art. Tommy captures this elusive quality, conveying the mystical allure of country where the spirit and essence of the land unfold before the viewer's eyes.

Tommy Day's art is not just a reflection of his cultural heritage but also a celebration of the enduring connection between the land, its people, and their shared future.

Throughout Tommy’s short yet prolific career thus far, he has been commissioned by local and state council and corporate entities, in addition to various arts organizations. Tommy has completed commissions for Yarra Trams (as part of Rising’s 2024 iteration), “Mooroop Yarkeen” for Wyndham City, “Mirring Walatha | Countries Embrace”, a Wominjeka artwork for Museums Victoria; Whittlesea Early Parenting Centre with Mercy Health, Parliament of Victoria (the inaugural RAP commission), and ALCOA Australia