Rarrkbun

Keelan Fejo’s new public artwork celebrates a unique way of Larrakia and Mayalli crosshatching.

Of his work, Keelan said, “Painting/crosshatching is very therapeutic for me, it keeps me cool, calm and collected. I feel like it helps me grow as a person and keeps me connected to my culture no matter how far away I may be. I live by my dad’s words ‘look, listen and learn’ and I thank my dad every day for teaching me his way”

This design features traditional Rarrkbun. A unique way of crosshatching learned from his late father. Keelan stating that he wanted to show a mix of both his Larrakia and Mayalli culture through the Rarrkbun, by using techniques from both sides.

Meet the Artist

Keelan Fejo (Instagram @artbykeelanfejo) is Mayalli/Larrakia man, born in Darwin and raised in Katherine, NT.  Keelan lives in Darwin and has previously lived in Acacia, Maningrida and Wugular (Beswick). Keelan grew up on country with his four siblings, mother, Allison Fejo (nee Ashley) and father William Fejo Jnr. 

From an early age Keelan watched is dad paint and quickly learned the skill of steady hand crosshatching. He sold his first ever painting in 2017 and has continued to create custom paintings for family and friends around Darwin. 

Along with his traditional artworks Keelan has been engaged to create designs for sporting club uniforms and guernseys, as well as designs for businesses and organisations. He has had the opportunity to showcase his designs across the Northern Territory, South Australia and regional Victoria and has expanded his work onto products such as engraved coolers and wine tumblers, keyrings, coasters and apparel. 

Keelan also plays Men's Premier League Football (AFL) for Wanderers Football Club, in the Northern Territory Football League.

Photographer: Helspix