My Aunty Patsy Morton: A Beacon of Artistic Brilliance

desertrhubeescreation
Mar 17
2 min read

Updated: Mar 25

Recently, I have been thinking about my Aunty Patsy. I wanted to share with everyone how I am incredibly fortunate to have this remarkable woman in my life. I want to shine a light on my Aunty Patsy Morton, an outstanding artist from the Northern Territory.

I proudly call her "Mum" because she is my mother Lucy Gibson's younger sister and the elder sister of my late Aunty Janey Briscoe. With a deep connection to their homeland, Arrungkey, Patsy can be found at Yuelamu.

For over thirty years, she has devoted herself to mastering various art forms, including fabric design, dressmaking, screen printing on canvas, pottery, and batik, showcasing her immense talent and passion for art.

Patsy, also known by her skin name Mbitjan and her maiden name Briscoe, is a powerful figure in my life, embodying her rich Anmatyerr and Irish heritage. The legacy of her parents, Friday (Arungi) and Ruby Briscoe has given her a profound appreciation for cultural storytelling.

As a mother, she has inspired her daughter, Patricia Morton Thomas, a gifted artist excelling in art, screen, radio, and journalism, ensuring that the family legacy of creativity continues strong.

Growing up with Aunt Patsy, I witnessed firsthand her unwavering commitment to preserving our cultural heritage through her captivating art. She has instilled in me and all family members the importance of staying connected to our culture boldly exploring new forms of expression.

Her storytelling reflects the rich tapestry of her childhood, highlighting her journey from a traditional upbringing to learning English through music by singing along to Slim Dusty's songs. Two of Aunty Patsy's paintings were bought by Slim Dusty and Joy McKean in Kempsey NSW. A bowl was also gifted to singer Ted Egan.

Patsy’s narratives capture the joys and challenges of life, emphasising the significance of family, land, and cultural identity.

Patsy has been a member of Territory Craft, she has also worked along with Faye Alexander, Sky who she mentions in the YouTube video below.

Patsy's art and Pottery, have been sold locally and worldwide.

Throughout the years Patsy has shown her works within exhibitions in the NT and in NSW. Patsy has been a member of Central Craft Alice Springs, IAD/Tjukuparra Arts, Batchelor College, and Leaping Lizard Gallery Alice Springs.

https://youtu.be/dg1Rcy_19NU?si=aNsLfxPWpzBNqWfA