Ngujarn and Nakun: Belonging In The Other
March 22, 2016
With help from the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund, the Koorie Heritage Trust has brought to life an exhibition curated by Victorian Aboriginal artist Steaphen Paton, showcasing work created by his elders.
This group show weaves a story around the family’s continuous resistance to colonisation, presenting old and new works by five descendants of highly respected elders Rachel and Albert Mullett from Victoria’s Gunai/Kurnai country.
The exhibition reflects on cultural knowledge and connection to traditional lands and explores the physical and industrial conflicts of Indigenous cultures in colonised states.
In addition to being an up-and-coming visual artist, curator and mentor, Steaphan is also a grandson of Rachel and Albert. With numerous group and solo shows including participation in the National Gallery of Victoria’s 2013 groundbreaking Melbourne Now exhibition, Steaphan is also the founder and director of artist run N/A Space, which aims to foster the careers of young and emerging artists. Influenced by his home country, Steaphan’s practice includes sculpture, installation, video and new technology.
The artists in the show are: Albert Mullett, Rachel Mullett, Kerrie Clarke, Kynan Clarke, Tehya Clarke, Seamus Clarke, Liam Clarke, Richard Mullett, Michael Mullett, Colin ‘Chook’ Mullett, Jennifer Mullett, Ben Pender, Luke Johnson, Hollie Johnson, Steaphan Paton, Timothy Paton, Doris Paton, Sienna Paton and Njarala Paton.
The exhibition is on at the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery, Level 1, Yarra Building, Federation Square, Melbourne VIC from 12 March to 15 May.
Cultural Fund applications are open now, read more or apply here.
Foreground: Installation by Steaphan Paton. Background: Jennifer Mullett (Gunaikurnai/Monero Ngarigo), Four Winds/Pe-ar-gul, Journey Lines, Night Birds (triptych), acrylic on canvas, 2009; Steaphan Paton The Anti-Myth 2015, synthetic polymer and pigment on board, carbon fibre and plastic.