THE Broken Hill City Art Gallery is hosting three exhibition openings tonight – the Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards, Wampa-waru, and Same Time/Same Place.
The gallery in collaboration with Maari Ma Aboriginal Health Corporation and West Darling Arts will present an exhibition of artworks by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists in the Maari Ma Indigenous Awards.
“The awards play an important role in showcasing and celebrating art and creativity in the Far West by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists,” said gallery manager Kathy Graham.
“It provides a platform where emerging, young and established artists can exhibit their works, drawing strength and inspiration from each other.”
Tess Allas is this year’s judge.
Ms Allas is an award winning curator, writer, artist, educator and advisor with strong links to Tharawal country in Wollongong.
She has been involved with Indigenous cultural development since the early 1990s.
Alongside the Maari Ma Awards, is the opening of Wampa-waru, an exhibition of work created by numerous members of local Barkindji family; Barbara Quayle, Tannya Quayle, Jade Cicak, David Doyle and Shaun Kemp.
Wampa-waru, meaning the quail, is the symbol of the family’s gentle nature, fierce protection of kin and deep connection to land and heritage.
The exhibition honours the artists roots and resilience, showcasing artwork that embodies their our identity or kirra, meaning country, and shared history.
Same time/Same place is a multi-series karaoke opera by Charlotte Haywood, which playfully explores a multi-species ephemeral opera set inspired by the ever changing landscape of the Far West.
All exhibitions opened on, Friday, November 1, at 6pm. Entry is free, with drinks available to purchase at the bar.
Broken Hill City Art Gallery is located 404-408 Argent Street.
