Shirley Michael started painting at high school, aged 15. Inspiration for her work comes from the landscapes of Noongar country and from her family. "Art is my way of expressing my spiritual beliefs as well as the beliefs of my ancestors. Aboriginal people have a special connection to this land (Australia). We are the true custodians of this place and I believe we were chosen to look after it," Shirley said. 'Kwidjar (frog) Guardian of Water and Land' is a piece which shows the rain has cleared and Kwidjar (the frog) is watching over the riverbanks for changes that have occurred. The water is dark and has bad spirits and the keepers are holding a gathering to cleanse the soul of the land, to keep Mother Earth pure and sacred. 'Kwidjar Dreaming' depicts two frogs keeping watch in the sky, representing the artist's spiritual connection to dreaming. "They keep my dreams pure at mind and spirit, the Kwidjar takes all the bad spirits and thoughts out of mind and body," Shirley said. | 
