LifestyleArtsEddie Koiki Mabo inspires BRAG exhibition

Eddie Koiki Mabo inspires BRAG exhibition

Eddie Koiki Mabo is the inspiration behind the upcoming Legacy: Reflections on Mabo exhibition

Eddie Koiki Mabo is the inspiration behind the upcoming Legacy: Reflections on Mabo exhibition to be held at the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery from Saturday 28 August.

Co-curated by his daughter Gail Mabo, the works in the exhibition come together to celebrate a man who was both a rebel and a dreamer.

It's the first exhibition of its kind to explore the life and legacy of the late Eddie Koiki Mabo through the artwork of Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists.

The exhibition showcases the work of 22 artists who have all used their pieces to respond to an aspect of Mabo they were drawn to whether it be his life, politics, activism or legacy.

Council’s Art, Culture and events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said the history and meaning behind the works made it a unique exhibition.

“This exhibition is fascinating in the way it helps to expand understanding of the way Eddie Mabo contributed to Australian history,” Cr Learmonth said.

Legacy: Reflections on Mabo encourages conversations about Indigenous rights for people of all ages and it is hoped Eddie’s story can be engaged with from a multitude of current perspectives.

“It contains 25 pieces of art, each which encourage a different conversation around Indigenous rights due to the nature of their connection back to Mabo’s legacy,” Cr Learmonth said.

“I encourage the community to visit the exhibition and have conversation amongst themselves, as it is a very important part of our culture as Australians.”

Pat Hoffie was invited to participate in the exhibition for her artwork which makes a statement about the importance of the recognition of First Nations people.

“Eddie Mabo's contribution to our understanding about the truth of prior occupation of the land is inestimable,” she said.

“It's of the most significant importance to all of us – First Nations people as well as non-Indigenous Australians.

“Eddie was a quiet achiever with remarkable qualities, three of which are his passion for his country, his passion for revealing and insisting on recognition of the truth, his tireless dedication to setting the records straight.”

The touring exhibition is on until Sunday, 7 November and incorporates a range of different mediums including painting, drawing, weaving and sculptures.

Artists on display at the exhibition include:

  • Blak Douglas & Adam Geczy
  • Elisa Jane Carmichael & Sonja Carmichael
  • Toby Cedar
  • Dian Darmansjah
  • Katina Davidson
  • Shane Fitzgerald
  • Hayley Megan French
  • Marion Gaemers
  • Patricia Hoffie
  • David Jones
  • Ian Kaddy
  • Talitha Kennedy
  • Jo Lankester
  • Veronica Lulu & Kim Mahood
  • Ron McBurnie
  • Arone Meeks
  • Jim Paterson
  • Tommy Pau
  • Obery Sambo
  • Anneke Silver
  • Ken Thaiday Sr.
  • Judy Watson

You can find out more about the exhibition here.

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