4 JULY – 28 AUGUST 2023

Kaiela Arts is proud to announce a new exhibition opening on Tuesday 4 July honouring and celebrating this year’s national NAIDOC Week Theme, For Our Elders.

This exhibition reflects interactions across generations and the value and enrichment that Elders bring to Kaiela Arts and community. Elders Cynthia Hardie, Laurel Robinson, Amy Briggs and Rochelle Patten have created a collection of new artworks collaboratively and individually – dynamic expressions, rich with colour and texture, that capture the vibrancy of family life and stories.

For Our Elders is about what our Elders share with us, and the special feeling that they give when they’re together explains Kaiela Arts Board member and artist, Belinda Briggs.

“When the Elders paint together, they’re thinking about their Elders, and so these works speak to the love and sacrifices that have been made over many generations.

Their works have been created through time spent together and the love that they have for family and people flows out on to the canvas. These artworks will spark yarning and connection.”

Reflecting family connections across the generations, the exhibition will also feature artworks by other Kaiela Arts artists who have been exploring new techniques with natural pigments. And a key highlight will be a series of new works created by children as young as 8 years old, and Year 12 students from ASHE, who have participated in the Deadly Decks program.

Facilitated by artist Tammy-Lee Atkinson, Deadly Decks creates a space for local Aboriginal children and young people to connect with culture and express themselves through art. Over 40 aspiring young artists have explored their creativity and will proudly display painted skateboard decks that tell their stories through symbols, colour, text and imagery.

Kaiela Arts warmly invites everyone to come and experience this special exhibition that pays homage to our Elders. The exhibition is a vibrant and joyous affirmation of the strength and resilience of Aboriginal people, and an important part of Kaiela Arts’ journey of rebuilding and revitalising practices following impacts of the pandemic.

Supported by:

Featured artwork above: Detail of Three Generations by Tammy-Lee Atkinson, 2023, Natural Pigments on Belgian Linen