Artist Bio 

Lyle Ah Sam, a proud Mitakoodi/Wakka Wakka man with multiple First Nations ancestries, was raised by his mother, Sheree Ah Sam, on Larrakia Country in Darwin's northern suburb of Karama. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of family values, cultural connection, and appreciation for community. His art practice is deeply rooted in his cultural knowledge, spirituality, and ancestral heritage, which has been passed down to him from his Elders.

As a contemporary raark artist, Lyle utilizes traditional mediums and techniques, drawing inspiration from his 9+ years of experience and guidance under his Uncle, Teacher, and Elder, Johnny Daylight Lacey. He carries on the knowledge entrusted to him by his Uncle Johnny, who was taught by Uncle Joseph Baird-Wallis, a student of Uncle David Malangi.

In his artworks, whether depicting animal or plant species, Lyle imbues a spiritual essence and a message, serving as a transmission of cultural knowledge and spiritual guidance. His inspiration is deeply rooted in his culture, spirit, family, and his relationship with the land, sky, and sea.