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Deadly – hey cuz!

An exhibition of contemporary Gippsland indigenous artists entitled ‘Deadly – hey cuz!’ was formally opened by artist Colin Thomas during NAIDOC Week at the Latrobe Regional Gallery on Thursday.

By Latrobe City Council - 14th July 2003 - Back to News

Co-curator Cliff Wandin said that the name for the exhibition comes from the popular expression, particularly among the local indigenous population, of ‘deadly’, meaning cool or great and ‘cuz’, meaning cousin.

"We want to attract people’s attention by telling them that this exhibition is cool. It’s unique and we want the local community to come and see it.

We have selected artworks by Gippsland’s leading senior and emerging indigenous artists, featuring original works based on indigenous cultural traditions and works which engage contemporary visual discourse," Mr Wandin said.

"Each artist takes a different approach. For instance, Jennifer Mullett’s prints use memories and symbols to embody cultural essentialism; Vicky Couzens’ print work is inspired by how she sees the world as a Kirrea/Wurrong woman, whilst Lisa Kennedy’s prints reflect the changes that have occurred in her own life," Mr Wandin explained.

"Albert Mullett plays a central role in passing on knowledge and skills required for the making of traditional weapons and Colin Thomas uses photography as a means of exploring his own creativity and technical possibilities. Ray Thomas was inspired to paint country landscapes by the late Lin Onus," Mr Wandin continued.

"Local indigenous weaver Elaine Terrick and sculptor Josephine Jakobi have worked together to produce a woven basket entitled ‘The Sky Raising Magpies’. Both Arthur Dawes-Pepper and Eileen Harrison studied Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art and Design at Central Gippsland TAFE, Morwell. Arthur’ work reflects his life experiences and Eileen has played an active role in increasing awareness of local indigenous art practices," Mr Wandin said.

This unique exhibition has been scheduled for display to bridge the period between National Reconciliation Day and the NAIDOC Week celebrations.

Mr Wandin said that the artists have been attracting national attention in recent years.

"Major galleries such as the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra and the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne have acquired work by some of these artists from top commercial galleries such as Alcaston House, Melbourne.

"We are therefore very pleased that Latrobe Regional Gallery has recently managed to acquire works by Jennifer Mullet as part of our acquisition program. It is a credit to the local arts community which is thriving in this region," Mr Wandin said.

Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Graeme Middlemiss added that the exhibition was important for the local community.

"We congratulate the artists and the gallery for working in partnership on this important survey and bringing these very talented members of the community to the public’s attention," Cr Middlemiss said.

"The exhibition highlights the depth of talent and professionalism achieved by these artists. It is a wonderful opportunity for both the indigenous and non-indigenous community to view these artists’ works without going to Melbourne. The exhibition is a positive step on our community’s path to reconciliation," Cr Middlemiss concluded.

‘Deadly – hey cuz!’ runs at the Latrobe Regional Gallery until 3 August.

The Latrobe Regional Gallery is located at 138 Commercial Road, Morwell, and is open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm, and on weekends 11am–4pm. The gallery is closed Mondays and Public Holidays. For further information about exhibitions at the gallery, please telephone 5128 5700, or visit the gallery web page: www.latroberegionalgallery.com


Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com



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