At the age of 16 Mick lost his greatest influence. The denial of his grandfather's death was expressed through outbursts of aggressive and rebellious behaviour and within months, this behaviour landed Mick in Risdon Prison for 15 months at the age of 17. While in prison Mick focused on regaining his identity through reading books about the Tasmanian Aboriginal Culture and painting the animals from the bush he had explored with his grandfather. Mick still uses his painting as a form of relaxation and a way to remember the experiences he shared with his grandfather.

Mick is now a resident of Strahan, Tasmania and continues to be inspired by the bush, his natural surroundings and his memories. His passion for knowledge, respect and understanding of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Culture, both past and present, helps him to focus on life. His ambition is to encourage others to understand that ‘identity of self’ is one of the most important personal achievements, everyone should experience in life.

"Just as I was influenced by my grandparents and parents, I encourage everyone to explore their cultural heritage regardless of race. Ultimately, it is us who shape and influence our children in future generations so their identity is not lost. Encourage your children to explore, understand and appreciate their cultural background - be proud of who you are." Mick Q

Over the last few years Mick has emerged as one of Tasmania’s leading contemporary aboriginal artists, with his attention to detail and research into his forebear’s techniques and subject mater giving him a rare ability to fuse modern mediums into traditional forms. Mick’s exhibitions are contemporary, extremely vibrant and host a unique compilation of works detailing everyday events and important food and living resources used over thousands of years of habitation in Tasmania.