YANGGA
Caleb Hall, known as Yangga, is the passionate owner of Yangga Art Studio, an establishment dedicated to preserving and sharing cultural practices through art and education. Born in Mossman and a proud member of the Kuku Yalanji tribe, Caleb's heritage is a rich blend of Aboriginal and European influences, reflecting a diverse cultural background that shapes his unique approach to art and education.
Cultural and Professional Expertise
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Caleb's mixed heritage gives him a unique perspective on cultural connections. His Aboriginal mother taught him about traditions, family, storytelling, and the significance of land, while his European father introduced him to diverse customs. As a passionate advocate for youth, Caleb leads workshops that focus on cultural preservation and the importance of knowing one’s roots for personal and community growth. He encourages young people to celebrate their backgrounds through art, storytelling, and traditional practices. His work fosters belonging and pride in diverse heritages, honoring his mother’s teachings and promoting unity and respect among cultures. Through these efforts, he helps youth thrive with a strong cultural identity.
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With a keen skill set in making traditional artefacts, Caleb incorporates his cultural heritage into his artwork, creating pieces that reflect both historical significance and personal expression. His craftsmanship includes an extensive knowledge of bush tucker and traditional fire-making techniques.
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Caleb has a longstanding history of working with youth in various capacities, including as a youth worker and in youth justice. His experience spans across cultural workshops and direct engagement with young people, aiming to empower and inspire them through shared cultural practices and life skills.
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An enthusiast of primitive living, Caleb enjoys demonstrating and teaching traditional skills that foster a deep connection with the natural world. His passion for these practices is evident in both his personal life and his professional endeavors.
MISSION
Caleb's journey as a mentor is a powerful testament to the strength of resilience and the importance of connection. Having faced his own battles during his teenage years, he recognizes the often-overwhelming challenges that young people encounter. This empathy fuels his passion for guiding youth, offering them not just advice, but understanding and support drawn from his own life lessons.
His commitment transcends mere mentorship; it is a mission to empower young individuals to see their potential. By sharing his story and insights, Caleb creates a safe space where teens can express themselves, learn, and grow. His impact extends beyond individual sessions; it fosters a sense of community and belonging among those he mentors. Caleb believes that with the right support, every young person has the capacity to overcome adversity and thrive, inspiring them to become the best versions of themselves.
VISION
Our vision for YANGGA ART STUDIO is to continue to provide a safe and nurturing space, where young individuals not only enhance their unique skills but also connect deeply with their heritage. Our goal is for our young people to learn to express their unique identities through creativity, exploring the richness of their traditions. Caleb aims to bridge the gap and empower his students to strengthen the bonds between them and their heritage.
Yangga Art Studio aims to equip the next generation with the confidence and identity they need to navigate the world. Through ancient skills, passed down through generations, he is nurturing not just indigenous youth, but cultural ambassadors for the future. By fostering creativity and a sense of belonging, we encourage our students to honor their past while forging their own paths forward. Each individual becomes a celebration of who they are and where they come from, creating a network of shared experiences and stories that enrich our community as a whole.