Jenna Lee on IG
Jenna's website

In this episode, we explore the intersections of art, identity, and cultural heritage with Larrakia Indigenous artist and designer Jenna (Mayilema) Lee, whose work navigates history, personal ancestry, and contemporary Australian life.

I may have mispronounced Jenna's mob affiliations (dear Americans: "mob" doesn't mean mafia as in "the mob;" in Australia, "mob" is a collective noun to refer to a kinship group. It is perhaps most similar to the usage of the word "posse," or "band," like in the Old West.)

Drawing on her mixed heritage - Aboriginal, Asian, and Anglo-Australian - Jenna reflects on how art can be a tool for discovery identity, rather than just a tool to express it.

We consider the Makkassan trade route; a pre-European, Aboriginal x Sulawesian (i.e. Indonesian) trade network that goes way back, and links Australia to China, who were even then, interested in "trepang" the sea cucumbers known for medicinal (and let's be clear, culinary use too!) uses. This is a lovely place to start the conversation I thought, because it gives insight to 1) how Australia had a role in regional maritime trade routes in pre-colonial times; 2) gives a sense of how vast Australia as a continent is, and the variation between indigenous "mobs;" 3) is great fodder for alt-fiction too.

We get into the theme of complexity before too long; this is the Vanilla Club after all, and the show wouldn't be the show if we didn't attempt to raid for some hidden complexities! Jenna examines how Aboriginality, Asian heritage, and queer identity intersect, reflecting on generational struggles and activism that have shaped her freedom to explore these aspects openly. By sharing personal and family histories, she aims to demystify mixed Aboriginal families and create space for representation and connection.

Residencies and international exhibitions have played a significant role in Jenna's art career. From Japan and Bali to Singapore and the U.S., she investigates global perceptions of Australian Aboriginal culture, exploring how histories and contemporary narratives are understood abroad, and giving us some insight into how little quirks in development lead to major differences in how contemporary folks can perceive the same thing.

The episode also addresses the challenges newcomers face in engaging with Aboriginal culture, discussing exhibitions like The Neighbour at the Gate at the National Art School, which fosters dialogue between Aboriginal artists and the Asian diaspora. She emphasises the importance of respectful engagement, recommending First Nations art fairs while acknowledging the gaps in available information and resources. We also touch on some politics and the confronting White-Power march that occurred recently in Melbourne, and how and where politics pops up in Jenna's work.

Through it all, her work embodies the duality of Australia, ancient and young at the same time--- with a wry sense of humour that pops up here and there--- wait for it! Check out Jenna's amazing instagram, where she actively posts updates on exhibitions and installations!

We hope you enjoy.