Artworks created by Anganya students feature in Benalla Art Gallery’s exhibition showcasing First Nations artists from across our region.
Under the guidance of talented Elders, Aunty Cheryl Cooper, Uncle Chris Thorne and Aunty Gaylene Arandall, the students created works that reflect their deepening understanding of Country and culture.
Students’ artworks include clay dioramas of traditional shelters known as mia-mias and multi-media piece “the Long-Necked Turtle”.
A video depicting the evolution of the Future Elder’s Mural, which students created with Uncle Chris Thorne during the Benalla Street Art Festival, is also part of the exhibition.
Benalla Art Gallery Director, Eric Nash, said he believes it is essential to provide spaces where First Nations voices, stories, perspectives and artistic practices can be celebrated and shared.
“Showing respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures is not simply a matter of acknowledgment,” he said.
“It is about actively creating opportunities for those cultures to be visible, valued and celebrated within our community.
“This exhibition reflects that commitment, and it’s been heartening to see such strong interest.”
The NAIDOC Week Benalla exhibition continues until September 6, and is free to enter.
The Future Elders mural is on permanent display at the Tomorrow Today premises at 66 Nunn St. You can watch the video of its evolution here.
Read more about the exhibition in the Benalla Ensign.