Dylan Djundea Charles is keeping Yorta Yorta traditions alive.
Dylan Djundea Charles, known in the art world as Kinglikebilly, proudly carries the legacy of his ancestors in both his name and his craft. As a descendant of two kings and a princess, his artist name is a tribute to his distinguished lineage.
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A proud Yorta Yorta/ Boonwurrung/ Wurundjeri/ Pangerang man from Shepparton, his journey as an artist and educator is deeply intertwined with his cultural heritage.
Dylan’s artistic style has evolved over the years, reflecting the changes he has gone through.
“My art is diverse in how I design things,” he says, highlighting the blend of dot work and linear styles that now define his creations. This evolution pays homage to south-east Australian traditions, reflecting his commitment to honouring the past while forging his path forward.
Much of his work was recently on display at Kaiela Art, as part of the NAIDOC Week theme of ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’.
This theme resonated deeply with Dylan.
“A lot of stories relate to the process of creating fire using the traditional way of Country,” he said.
Dylan’s journey as an artist began at Wulgunggo Ngalu Learning Place, a facility designed for young Aboriginal men on community correction orders. This program offers them a last chance to reconnect with their culture and avoid the prison system.
“Unfortunately, Aboriginal men don’t get to create until they’re incarcerated. Then, it’s already too late,” Dylan said.
His seven months at Wulgunggo Ngalu not only changed his outlook on life but also deepened his connection to his cultural heritage.
Before this transformation, Dylan said he was influenced by United States rap culture and became involved with gangs. Spending time at Wulgunggo Ngalu Learning Place saved his life by allowing him to rediscover his roots and helping him realise “that’s not our way”.
“After a troubled past, I got back into my culture,” he said.
Dylan continues to visit the facility for yarning circles, engaging with participants and sharing his story of transformation.
“I tell them what to make of the space,” he said, offering guidance and hope.
Dylan recalled his early days as an artist living in Melbourne, where he would visit backpackers, play the didgeridoo and offer his artwork to travellers.
“Tourists appreciated purchasing authentic Aboriginal artwork instead of the stuff made in China,” he said.
With seven years of experience as a professional artist, Dylan’s work has crossed borders, finding homes in 18 countries, including Scotland, Macedonia, Ireland, New Zealand, the US, France and England. His art has captivated diverse collectors, from singer Billie Eilish to the Parliament House of Victoria and former politician Martin Foley, to name a few.
“I create every day; as soon as I get home from work, I am painting.”
Beyond his artistry, Dylan is a dedicated Aboriginal educator and art teacher. He carries “a lot of knowledge of the traditional lives of my ancestors”, which he passionately shares during workshops.
His teaching extends to Kaiela Arts, universities, community initiatives such as Initiatives of Change and even within the prison system. Drawing from his own experiences, Dylan is committed to helping young Indigenous people who face challenges.
Today, Dylan is the only Yorta Yorta man of his generation who can speak and teach the Yorta Yorta language.
“When you know your language, you know yourself more,” he says, highlighting the importance of language in cultural identity.
His work at the Yorta Yorta Nations Aboriginal Corporation and his creative business allow him to continue sharing his culture with others.
Creating has become an integral part of Dylan’s daily life.
“I create every day; as soon as I get home from work, I am painting,” he said.
This daily practice is not just about art — it’s a way of life, a way to stay connected to his culture, ancestors and community.
Through his art and work, Dylan Djundea Charles keeps the fire burning, honouring the past while shaping the future for himself and the generations to come.
