"The Baayi – People and Places - New Edition series is a deeply personal and evocative reflection on my journey, honouring both my own experiences and the rich heritage of my ancestors. The Wiradjuri word Baayi, meaning footprints, poignantly frames this narrative, emphasizing the importance of tracing and acknowledging the paths laid before and walked by those who have come before me.

The U-shaped and circular symbols in my artwork not only serve as visual representations of traditional Aboriginal symbols but also mark significant places of rest and encounters. The concentric circles denote campsites, watering holes, and special meeting places, while the U shapes signify individuals I have met along the way. The incomplete symbols evoke a sense of an ongoing journey and the search for completeness, mirroring my quest for a place that truly feels like home.

The many dots throughout my paintings capture the multitude of footsteps taken by my ancestors, symbolizing the continuous movement and persistent search for connection and belonging. My exploration of colours reflects the ever-changing nature of the land and my gratitude for its beauty, highlighting the softness and warmth of Mother Earth. My childhood memories of drawing in the sand by the Macquarie River reveal a profound connection to the land and a sense of freedom that has guided me throughout my life. Reflecting on my grandfather and father’s days of droving our lands, I honour their efforts and sacrifices, acknowledging their role in shaping our family's history and providing a foundation for our journey. As a mother, I feel a sense of fulfilment and pride, with my circle complete as I continue to cement my place in the broader tapestry of my family's legacy.

Overall, this series is a beautiful testament to my personal growth, the enduring presence of my ancestors, and the unbreakable connection to the land. It captures both the physical and emotional landscapes of my life, inviting viewers to join me in recognizing and celebrating these profound footprints."

— Lizzy Stageman

The Indigenous Collection translates original artworks by First Nation artists into three-dimensional luxury rugs using the finest materials such as wool and silk. The copyright of the original designs and stories behind each of the artworks remains the property of the individual artist. Each artist is paid a royalty of every sale.

Key Features & Specifications

• Construction: Hand-tufted

• Materials: New Zealand Wool with Art-Silk

• Pile / Texture: 9mm finished cut pile height with 12mm raised cut pile height

Also available in custom sizing. If required, the design can be customised regarding shape, size and colour in consultation with the artist.

Tappeti acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation. We acknowledge the Cameraygal people who are the traditional custodians of the lands on which our company is located and where we conduct our business. We pay our respects to ancestors and Elders, past and present. Tappeti is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.

Due to the handmade nature of our rugs, slight variations in colour may occur between different dye batches. These variations are a natural characteristic of artisanal craftsmanship and can vary from order to order, especially in the case of re-orders or stock replenishments. If colour accuracy is crucial for your project, please contact our studio before placing your order to discuss your specific requirements.