Introducing our July Artist of the Month: Bayley Misfud | Merindah-Gunya

Her Aboriginal name, Merindah-Gunya, meaning "Beautiful Spirit" in Peek Whurrong language, reflects her deep connection to her heritage and the artistic inspiration she draws from her culture.

This month Bayley has created three beautiful designs to recognise NAIDOC week and it's theme; For Our Elders. 

About Merindah-Gunya

Bayley Mifsud's journey in Aboriginal art began at a young age of 5 when she started exploring her people's rich culture through art, music, and dance, guided by Elders at Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Throughout her life, she has received ongoing guidance from Elders, particularly her Aunty Ros, a Butchulla woman. Her passion for art grew exponentially, and she developed her unique style by incorporating storytelling techniques learned during a transformative experience in Alice Springs.

In high school, Bayley showcased the beauty, meaning, and history behind Aboriginal art in a project centered around "Identity." Her artwork, inspired by her own heritage, won the prestigious 'Directors Choice Award' and was purchased, marking a significant milestone in her artistic journey. Even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bayley reignited her passion for art and began sharing her work on Facebook. This led to numerous requests for commissioned pieces, further fueling her dedication to sharing the stories and culture of Australia's First Nations.

Peeneeyt ‘Strong’ – eftpos gift card

Bayley's first gift card design, titled 'Peeneeyt ‘Strong,' is a powerful representation of her strong bloodline. As a proud Aboriginal woman, Bayley acknowledges and honors her lineage of strong Aboriginal women, particularly her nanna (Maud) and great granny (Amy). The intricate design features three paths intertwined and connected, symbolizing the unity and strength that resonates through generations. This gift cardserves as a tribute to her ancestors and their enduring legacy. By continuing the tradition of Aboriginal art and storytelling, Bayley pays homage to her Elders and their contributions to her identity as an artist.

Leekatyoong ‘Courage’ – Mastercard Gift Card

The second gift carddesign by Bayley, 'Leekatyoong ‘Courage,' pays homage to her great granny, Amy. Amy was a passionate, powerful, and courageous woman who remained true to herself despite the adversities faced by their people in the past. Inspired by her great granny's spirit, Bayley incorporates symbols of strength and resilience into this design. This gift card serves as a reminder of the courage she possesses, nurtured by the indomitable spirit of her ancestor. In creating this artwork, Bayley showcases the importance of honoring the past and drawing strength from the stories and experiences of her Elders.

Weerreeyarr ‘Woman's Spirit’ – Card.Gift Card

The third and final gift card design, Weerreeyarr ‘Woman's Spirit,' is a beautiful representation of Bayley's connection to her Elders. Coming from a lineage of strong Aboriginal women, Bayley embraces her role as a custodian of the tradition of Aboriginal art. This design celebrates the spirits of her Elders, capturing the essence of their wisdom, resilience, and grace. Through her artwork, Bayley carries forward the legacy of Aboriginal women, ensuring that their stories and culture are preserved and shared for generations to come.

NAIDOC Week 2023: For my Elders

NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration of the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In 2023, the theme for NAIDOC Week is "For my Elders," a powerful acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions and wisdom of Indigenous Elders. Bayley's gift card designs beautifully align with this theme, as she draws inspiration from her ancestors and shares their stories through her art.

Through her creative expressions, Bayley pays homage to her Elders by celebrating their strength, courage, and spirit. The intricate symbolism woven into each design reflects the interconnectedness of generations, honoring the lineage of Aboriginal women who have shaped her identity. By continuing the tradition of Aboriginal art and storytelling, Bayley ensures that the voices and experiences of her Elders are heard and remembered.

Bayley is a talented artist whose passion for Aboriginal art and storytelling shines through her beautiful designs. Her gift card creations, inspired by her strong bloodline and the wisdom of her Elders, serve as a powerful tribute to her heritage. Bayley's work resonates with the 2023 NAIDOC Week theme, "For Our Elders," as she draws a deep connection between her artistic creations and the importance of honouring and preserving Indigenous culture.

We are honoured to showcase Bayley's incredible talent and share her remarkable journey with our Card.Gift community. This NAIDOC week pause to immerse yourself in the rich stories and culture of Australia's First Nations.

Discover Bayley's amazing eftpos, Mastercard and Card.Gift gift card designs here.