The exhibition showcases work from artists at the Galiamble and Winja Ulupna Recovery Centres as they respond to ‘Heal Country’, the theme of National NAIDOC Week 2021, which runs from 4 to 11 July.
The exhibition was named “Corroboree – Coming Together” by the artists to highlight the importance of reconciliation and the hope it brings for the future. It also reflects them supporting each other as a community after being separated due to COVID-19 last year.
Mayor Louise Crawford said the exhibition is a beautiful insight into the artists and their journeys.
“For many, this will be the first time showing their work at a gallery as ‘artists’. After the challenges presented by the pandemic, it’s wonderful to be able to come together and enjoy these fantastic pieces of art. I encourage everyone to visit the Carlisle Street Arts Space and absorb the stories of these talented artists,” Cr Crawford said.
Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation Arts Facilitator Viv Parry said the scale of the project was truly impressive.
“Our artists responded to their chosen reconciliation theme, “Corroboree – Coming together”, by creating a large 3 metre x 2.5 metre painting with 16 panels representing the Aboriginal flag. Within the yellow sun, a black hand stretches beyond its margins to reach a white hand,” Ms Parry said.
“The installation extends to the floor area where a “smoking” ceremony bowl holds eucalyptus branches. A wooden spear with its sharp end wrapped in white cloth rests amongst the tan bark, signifying: ‘We have laid down our spears, we want to come together in friendship and respect’.”
“Corroboree – Coming Together” can be viewed at the Carlisle Street Arts Space, St Kilda Town Hall, 99a Carlisle Street St Kilda, from 18 June until 14 July 2021. Carlisle Street Arts Space is open Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5 pm. Entry is free of charge.
