Zartisha Davis

Zartisha Davis, a Kabi Kabi Gubbi Gubbi Traditional Owner and visual artist, blends her rich cultural heritage with contemporary art. Since completing the R|5.0 Creative Business Incubator in 2023, Zartisha has made her mark as a finalist in the Caloundra Regional Art Gallery's Local Contemporary Art Prize, the Yepang Emerging Art Prize, the 40 Under 40 Prize and Exhibition, and most recently the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize.

Zartisha is the creative force behind the Autistic and Deadly t-shirts, celebrating Indigenous culture and advocating for neurodivergence. Her creative portfolio includes notable projects for the Sunshine Coast Lightning netball team, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to community engagement.

Zartisha's recent accomplishments include participating in Project Lab and Project 24's September 2023 residency. Her piece Shell Middens, reflecting stories from her family, Saltwater tribe, and country, was shortlisted for the Macquarie Group Art Prize. Now exploring video and installation art, Zartisha’s solo show at Lantana Art Space has garnered acclaim. Her commitment to cultural education shines through in the workshops she delivers for communities and schools, where she shares her passion for art and traditional dance.

As a Traditional Owner, Zartisha’s roots are in the Mooloolaba Chilly family, the Red Belly Black Snake people of the Mooloolah Plains and Meridian Plains. Her heritage also includes the Cobble Cobble people of the Barunggam Nation and the Butchulla people from K’Gari on her father’s side. After 15 years on Yugambeh and Bundjalung Country, Zartisha has returned home to Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Country, drawing inspiration from her heritage. An active member of the Gubbi Gubbi Dance Troupe, Jinibara Dance Troupe, and Bonyi Gari Dance Troupe, Zartisha performs traditional dances with her son, keeping culture alive through storytelling and movement.