Lena Smith
A proud Kamilaroi artist and mother
Lena Smith is a proud Kamilaroi woman from Moree and mum of two boys. Her journey with HIPPY began locally, first as a parent and then as a Tutor. Today, her artwork features across the national HIPPY curriculum, ensuring families see culture reflected in their children’s learning.
Her art reflects the stories told by her grandparents and the animals, land, and sunsets she observes on afternoon walks with her boys.
In 2022, Lena created a series of animal artworks for the HIPPY Australia curriculum. Her designs now feature on the covers of activity packs, site uniforms, and HIPPY resources, becoming part of HIPPY’s national identity.
“Stories from my grandparents helped a lot with me picking the animals for this artwork. They're from the Country. So they sustained our people and were cared for by our people for thousands of years through one totemic system.”
Beyond HIPPY, Lena’s art can be found throughout Moree, from murals in schools, youth centres, and the train station, to jersey designs for local rugby league clubs. Each piece carries stories of culture, community, and connection to Country.
I have always wanted to make art. I seem to just pick up a paintbrush and start painting when I'm feeling anxious or stressed. I love what I do. That motivates me a lot to just keep doing it and keep making people happy.
Community Projects
Lena Smith is a generational Aboriginal artist who learned to paint by watching her family. Beyond HIPPY, she has created murals, designs, and artworks across Moree that bring culture into everyday community spaces.
To see more of Lena’s work, head to her Instagram page @Lena_Smith_art
Mowanjum-Derby: Adapting HIPPY for community success
Reflecting community voices
SNAICC 2025 resources
Stories and resources
