The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, an initiative by Façon Australia, has announced Jasmine Christie as the recipient of the 2026 $10,000 scholarship.
A proud Palawa artist living and working on Worimi and Awabakal Country in Lake Macquarie, Christie was selected from an exceptionally strong field of applicants for her deeply personal artistic practice, exploring motherhood, healing, identity and cultural connection.
In her scholarship application, the talented creative said her practice is deeply informed by motherhood and the lived female experience.
"My work centres on the connection that comes from shared experience," she said.
"With a yearning for service, I developed 'Paint Your Birth Story' workshops that create space for women to yarn, process and express their experience through shared storytelling and art."
Her winning body of work impressed the Committee with its powerful storytelling through richly layered works, acrylic painting, woven raffia, clay and traditional Palawa materials.
The scholarship, supported by Greater Bank, will support Jasmine as she continues developing this multidisciplinary practice.
In her application, Christie said the funding would allow her to purchase professional materials, secure an ongoing studio space and deepen her research into Palawa cultural practices and material histories.
"This funding would support a dedicated First Nations artist to continue creating space for women to birth debrief, and continue a practice rooted in respect, ancestral knowledge and care for Country and each other," she said.
Façon founder and editor-in-chief Lara Lupish said Christie's work stood out for its authenticity and emotional depth.
"Jasmine's work showcases the strength of an emerging creative voice with a clear vision and a deeply considered approach to storytelling," she said.
The way she transforms personal experiences into powerful artistic expression is what makes a lasting impact.
"The scholarship exists to elevate Indigenous voices with something meaningful to say, and Jasmine embodies exactly that. We're excited to support the next chapter of her artistic journey."
NGM Group head of community and sustainability Kirrah McClelland, of which Greater Bank is a part, said: "Jasmine is immensely talented at what she does, and each of her paintings fosters connection, storytelling and empowerment through breathtaking artworks."
"We are honoured to support Jasmine in continuing to grow her incredible collection of work and we can't wait to watch more of her ideas be brought to life through her paintbrush."
Eight other finalists will each receive a $1,000 prize, thanks to Greater Bank's continued support of the scholarship program.
Each finalist has also been paired with an established Indigenous mentor within their creative discipline.
Coinciding with the winner announcement on July 9, Façon Australia will release a special edition magazine, The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship 2026 Edition.
Featuring acclaimed singer, songwriter, actor and proud First Nations woman Casey Donovan on the cover, the publication celebrates this year's finalists, mentors and the stories behind the scholarship.
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