Craig ‘Chook’ Pickett

BORN: Kellerberrin
TRIBE: Nyoongar
REGION:   Wheatbelt

Craig Pickett was born at Kellerberrin the Wheatbelt town of Western Australia, Craig is a Nyoongar man and the youngest of seven. He comes from a very creative and artistic family and has been a keen Artist since his primary schooling in Tammin.

After being affected by Polio as a child, Craig could not take part in sport but developed skills in other ways that led to a passion for the Arts. In the mid eighties Craig entered one of his paintings in an Art Competition and won first prize in the Acrylics category. Also a keen guitarist, Craig performs with a band called ‘Red Ochre’ and after a visit to Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2005, won first place in the Open Instrumental section of the Aboriginal Talent Quest.

Craig is inspired by his father Fred for his keen work ethic and encouragement to aspire to the goals he wishes to achieve. Craig has also been greatly influenced by Artists such as Albert Namatjirra and his brother Shane Pickett, who advanced as one of Australia’s most recognised professional Indigenous Artists.