Crab and Mudla 

Street sweeper wrapped with striking artwork by local Larrakia/Mayalli artist Keelan Fejo.

The work is called ‘Mudla (Crab) and Crayfish’ and is a saltwater design featuring local crab and crayfish, along with the reef detail in between. 

From a young age Keelan learnt to paint from his father including traditional styles such as steady hand rarrkbun (crosshatching). Painting in this way keeps Keelan connected to both his Larrakia and Mayalli cultures and helps to maintain his artistic skillset. 

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.