For Our Elders: 2023 NAIDOC Exhibition

In reflection of the 2023 NAIDOC theme, For Our Elders showcases a selection of The City of Joondalup’s First Nations Art Collection, featuring artists specifically living and working across Western Australia. Collectively, the works weave an overarching story about the importance of community, culture, and Country. Throughout the exhibition, each work links back to For Our Elders, by the artist either portraying stories about elders, by elders or for elders within their communities.

This exhibition of collection artworks explore the variety of artistic practice coming from the community between 2003 to the latest acquisition in 2022, from paintings on canvas, such as Lindsay Harris working with natural pigments, through to Lea Taylor’s, Gorah Wandang – To Wear a Long Time Ago, Booka (kangaroo skin cloak). The variety of mediums and materials used across these works, highlights the diversity we can expect from Aboriginal artists, and challenges perceived notions of Aboriginal art.

For Our Elders is a space to reflect upon the trailblazers, knowledge holders, survivors and influential artists, within the community in Boorloo and the wider Western Australian community who have guided the way and pushed boundaries for Aboriginal art. Pioneers and prominent artists Sandra Hill, Meeyakba Shane Pickett (dec.) and Tjyllyungoo Lance Chadd, who are widely known for their contribution to the “revival” of Noongar art, as well as Queenie McKenzie (dec.) and Helicopter Tjungurrayi, from the Kimberley, are featured here alongside the those who have followed in their footsteps.

Curated by Zali Morgan