About Michael Jalaru Torres
Cultural Narrative
I am a Djugun–Yawuru immersive artist, fine art photographer, and poet based in Broome, Western Australia. My creative practice is deeply rooted in my ancestral connections to the Djugun, Yawuru, Gooniyandi, Jabbir Jabbir, and Ngarluma peoples. My work is an ongoing exploration of social history, the Kimberley landscape, and the evolving nature of Indigenous identity in a modern world.
My Approach
Through my lens and digital practice, I map my own journey while striving to document the lives, histories, and stories of others. My photography is more than just visual documentation; it is an act of storytelling that challenges stereotypes and brings nuanced First Nations perspectives to the forefront.
I am particularly passionate about the intersection of tradition and technology. By utilizing immersive tools like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), I aim to create new spaces for cultural expression that allow audiences to engage with Country and Dreaming stories in innovative, meaningful ways.
Advocacy & Community
I am the founder of Blak Lens, an initiative created to address the significant underrepresentation of First Nations people in the creative industries. Blak Lens acts as a bridge, connecting talented creatives with opportunities and fostering a supportive community where our stories can be told on our own terms.
My commitment to the next generation of storytellers is central to my work, and I am proud to collaborate with organizations like the SharingStories Foundation to mentor young voices and preserve knowledge for the future.
Selected Highlights
Artistry: A focus on portraiture and abstract landscapes that interrogate social, political, and cultural identities (notably in series such as Jurru and Native).
Exhibitions: Showcasing work at institutions such as the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
Innovation: Developing immersive storytelling experiences that bridge the gap between ancient cultural knowledge and digital futures.
“My work is a map of my story and a testament to the enduring strength of our culture.”
You can find more of his work on his website www.jalaru.com or follow him on Instagram at www.instagram.com/jalaruphotography/ .
I am also the founder of Blak Lens www.blaklens.com.au
ABN: 80 331 475 280
Contact me
jalaruphotography@live.com.au
0400569688
Broome, Western Australia
Capability
I primarily shoot on Canon C70 for video productions and Fuji GFX and X Series for stills
with Dji Mavic 3 for drone imagery.
My workflow includes Adobe Creative Cloud
Clients
Rio Tinto | INPEX | City of Melbourne | Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages | Department of Justice and Community Safety | ACMI | Thirrili Ltd | Culture is Life | Yarra Ranges | Community Arts Network | Melbourne Fringe 2019 | Yirramboi Festival 2019 | Koorie Heritage Trust | Playwriting Australia | Landcorp | National Indigenous Literacy Foundation | Nyamba Bu Yawuru | WAITOC | ABC | NITV | Marrugeku | Magabala | Goolarri Media | Aarli Fashion | Jira Models | Mayrah Fashion | Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service | Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service | AFL
File transfer via deliver via Dropbox and WeTransfer