Cholena Hughes

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Cholena Hughes is a proud Koa woman, born on Turrbal Country, raised on Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Country, and now residing on Jinibara Country in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. A passionate visual artist and educator, Cholena’s work is deeply connected to her love for Country, often using materials and symbolism from the natural environment to tell her story and share cultural knowledge.

Cholena discovered her passion for art during high school but initially pursued a career in hospitality. Encouraged by her husband after rediscovering her early portfolio, she returned to her creative roots, undertaking formal studies in visual arts. This journey has led to a diverse art practice and a rewarding career teaching and inspiring others.

With over a decade of experience teaching visual arts, including working within the VET Inside program in correctional centres, Cholena has empowered her students to reconnect with their culture, build confidence, and find belonging through art. She has played a pivotal role in introducing cultural arts qualifications, helping First Nations students explore their identity and creative expression.

Cholena’s art extends beyond teaching; her creations and collaborative projects celebrate the connection between people, culture, and Country. From workshops and exhibitions to tactile designs for the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, she is a prominent figure in the Sunshine Coast’s art community. Through her work, Cholena continues to inspire connection, resilience, and unity, demonstrating how art can bridge stories across generations and cultures.

In this episode, Cholena tells her powerful story of discovering her Aboriginal heritage and the profound impact it has had on her life. Cholena shares pivotal moments, from meeting her husband Peter to the life-changing revelation from her Aunty Minnie. She reflects on navigating her identity as a white-passing Aboriginal woman and her deep commitment to advocating for culture. Cholena also discusses the importance of passing on cultural teachings to the next generation, including her own daughter Amelia. This is a moving and insightful conversation that celebrates the resilience and richness of Aboriginal heritage. Listeners are sure to be inspired by Cholena's journey and her passion for keeping the fire burning.

Thank you to Shannan Bishop, a proud Gunggari Artist and Graphic Designer, who also has connections to Wakka Wakka and Kabi Kabi, for designing The Dreaming Collective's Podcast Artwork. Shannan's art depicts our host, Carly Forrest's journey of bringing the podcast to life and shows the coming together of freshwater and saltwater ~ red dirt and sand with the sharing of our storylines connecting us all and preserving these yarns for future generations.