Henry Jones Art Prize

Digital IllustrationArt Awards
Written By Caleb Nichols-Mansell

A digital re-creation of a shell necklace honouring women’s skill and cultural continuity.

kanalaritja was inspired by a historic shell necklace held in a private Melbourne collection; 565 shells strung on fine twine, referenced in Ling Roth’s 1890 writings. Over 24,000 individual strokes and 11 hours of work went into recreating this piece as a digital artwork, honouring the skill, patience, and cultural strength of our women in sustaining Palawa traditions. The work stands as a testament to the unbroken string of cultural practice, carried forward by their dedication. Although I did not win the award, I was honoured to be a finalist.

Client: Henry Jones Art Hotel
Project Type: Art Award, Digital Illustration
Location: Hobart, Tasmania
Year: 2021

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Caleb Nichols-Mansell

Caleb Nichols-Mansell moves between Country, culture, and contemporary practice — weaving stories from land, spirit, and community into powerful visual languages. As a proud Palawa man, Caleb's work bridges the ancient and the evolving, reimagining Aboriginal knowledge systems through design, public art, and digital storytelling.

His practice is rooted in Country and carried forward through site-responsive interventions, graphic and surface design, and large-scale public commissions. Through intricate textures, flowing linework, and bold organic forms, Caleb invites reflection on identity, resilience, and the enduring strength of Palawa people.

His works have been commissioned by leading institutions across Australia, including MONA, University of Tasmania, Arts Tasmania, Australian Fashion Week, Lifeline Australia, and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra; embedding stories of survival, connection, and contemporary Aboriginal identity into the cultural, public, and built environment.

www.calebnicholsmansell.com.au

https://www.calebnicholsmansell.com.au
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