Aboriginal and Māori artists Brian Stevens, Julie Tipene-O’Toole and Tiaki Mitchell feature in the latest exhibition at the Eltham Library Community Gallery.
The exhibition, titled Talking and Listening to Country, is inspired by the cultural connections the artists have with their traditional land or country. Their work is informed and influenced by the practice of talking and listening to country – a time to stop, sit and listen to what the land has to tell us. The knowledge and answers we seek are there, we just have to listen.
Ms Tipene-O’Toole said her work pays tribute to her ancestral mountains and rivers and all the natural treasures that are sacred to her and her people. Her stories are presented in her prints and installations.
Brian Stevens and Tiaki Mitchell present their stories through colourful paintings and hand woven wool rugs. Other work includes a ‘Welcome’ installation representing the artists’ expression of welcome to all who visit the gallery and a cosy ‘Sitting Place’ has been set up, inviting people to sit and enjoy everything in the exhibition.
Feedback from those visiting the gallery has been extremely positive.
“What an amazing, well informed exhibition. Love it, very inspiring.”
“Have walked around and experienced each piece, I see the passion of the artist!”
The exhibition runs until 1 October 2023 at Eltham Library Community Gallery, Panther Place, Eltham. Opening hours vary. Visit the Eltham Library Community Gallery page for details.
The artists wish to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the gallery is located, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples and pay respect to their Elders past, present and future.
