Title

New Acquisitions / New Perspectives.

Venues

Flinders University Museum of Art [FUMA]. (10 July 2023 – 22 September 2023)

Date

(2023)

Summary

Multi-artist exhibition. Located: Australia (SA). Included Prints

Abstract

A bold new exhibition bringing together selected artworks acquired in the past five years by Flinders University Museum of Art (FUMA) shines a light on the important role of art in reflecting the lived experience of Aborginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

New Acquisitions / New Perspectives showcases 47 works that chart a course through the complexities, challenges and opportunities enveloping communities, as seen through the eyes of emerging and established artists.

FUMA Director Fiona Salmon says this dynamic exhibition invites engagement with First Nations knowledges, perspectives and experiences through the lens of 21st century Australia.

“We are in critical period of contemplation about recognition, reconciliation and relationship with the first peoples of Australia. As the process for constitutional change and a referendum to establish a Voice for First Nations Australians intensifies, art is a powerful expression of hope and potential,” Ms Salmon says.

“The works include paintings, watercolour, etchings, linocut that reflect connection to Country, while photographic compositions address themes of sovereignty, displacement, exploitation, and cultural resilience.

“The juxtaposition of prints, paintings and photographs, the exhibition amplifies the diverse and distinctive vision of individual artists, while revealing the intersecting themes and shared concerns that connect them.

“New Acquisitions/New Perspectives is an opportunity to reflect on First Nations achievements, histories and cultures, and associated political, legal and social challenges facing Australia today.

“As custodians of one of the largest university art collections in Australia from our first work acquired in 1975 and now ecncompassing more than 4000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks, we are deeply committed to preserving this important legacy for generations to come.

“In celebrating these acquisitions and their contribution to the national discourse, we gratefully acknowledge the generosity of the artists, donors, collectors and friends who have most recently supported the museum and made this exhibition possible. The unwavering support from community has profound impact on shaping collection and constructing an enduring educational legacy for current and future generations,” Ms Salmon says.

New Acquisitions/New Perspectives Featured Artists: Ali Gumillya Baker, Michael Cook, Djäti Garrawurra, Vanessa Inkamala, Noŋgirrŋa Marawili, Arone Raymond Meeks, Hayley Millar Baker, Wanharrawurr Munuggur 2, Marrnyula Munuŋgurr, Claude Pannka, r e a, Brenton Raberaba, Wenten Rubuntja, Sandra Saunders, Siena Milkila Stubbs, Christian Thompson, Whiskey Tjukangku, James Tylor and Laura Wills, Dhukumul Wanambi, Elaine Woods and Venita Woods, Nyapanyapa Yunupingu. [Exhibiytion press release].