Fine Art Gallery

In the 1990s, women emerged to become the dominant force in Aboriginal art and carried the movement toward international acclaim. In recent years we have seen women reassessing and affirming their positions globally. We are entering an exciting period in history where the world expects balance.

 

In conjunction with International Women's Day and Art Month 2019, Cooee Art presents Women In Colour, curated by Director Mirri Leven. Leven has selected works from communities across Australia that illustrate distinctive relationships to their culture, country and each other. Providing commentary on the role of the modern day woman and explore what it means to be an Indigenous woman in contemporary Australia. The exhibition comprises works by solo indigenous women artists, as well as collaborative pieces that emphasise the connections between all women. Not only does it bring forward this interconnectedness, but the exhibition will also place a voice for all female artists firmly into the #metoo conversation.

 

Leven states:

 

The hero painting selected is a collaborative piece by the Kaltjiti Collaborative, titled Ngura. Chosen by Leven while in Alice Springs in a serendipitous moment when a butterfly landed on the centre of the piece. She states: "It was a magical moment". Ngura is created by: Tjang George, Katrina Roberts, Carol Stevens, Pollyanne Smith, Imitjala Curley, Carolanne Ken, Rachael Stevens, Meredith Tracle, Tjungurra George, Antjala Robin and Ingrid Tracle. The combination of different styles and stories create a rich tapestry of colour and mark making. It is an epic tale that culminates different elements including dreamings, landmarks, stones, trees, rocks, and soakages. It too is a reflection of the diversity and family relationships in the APY Lands. Older women working with the younger generation share their skills and stories through painting. Some of the stories represented in this painting included The Seven Sisters Dreaming, Minyma Makuli, Piltati Rockhole at Nyapari, Walytjitjata and Mamungarinyi.

 

Other artworks include a cheeky series of ceramics by Karla Dickens, The Seven Sisters Dreaming by Athena Nangala Granites and some new experimental art by Kitty Napanangka Simon.

 

Women in Colour will be on view at Cooee Art Paddington from 8-30 March 2019, officially opening on International Women's Day, March 8th 6 pm.