They say every tattoo tells a story and the Ink in the Lines exhibition will do just that for 22 members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force.
The exhibition was curated by the Australian War Memorial and will be on display at the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery from Saturday 11 June.
It explores the personal stories of 22 people from all branches of the Australian Defence Force, with their explanations providing an interesting and varied insight.
The stories collated as part of the exhibition addressed four major themes:
• Identity and belonging
• Mateship and family
• Loss, grief and commemoration
• Healing
Bundaberg Regional Council Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said Ink in the Lines was a thought-provoking exhibition.
“Being able to host an exhibition of this calibre, curated by the Australian War Memorial, is a coup for our regional gallery,” Cr Learmonth said.
“I encourage anyone who can to visit this exhibition and learn, from a unique perspective, about those who served for our country and the stories they have to share.”
Australian War Memorial photographic curator Stephanie Boyle said the veterans’ identities were inscribed on their skin.
She said the tattoos recognised the commemoration of loss, experiences of trauma and overcoming adversity, the bonds of family and friends, and acknowledged the experiences that defined who they were.
“I hope this exhibition helps visitors to engage with the Australian military in a way they probably haven’t before, so that they see that everyone has an important story to tell, and that some stories can be written on skin,” Stephanie said.
Ink in the Lines artist table event exclusive experience
The Bugle Boy and the Electric Boogaloos will be taking over The Vault space at the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery for the duration of the Ink in the Lines exhibition.
The Vault will become a delight for the senses as the exhibition shares a series of experimental videos and drawings which feature Sydney based artist Todd Fuller collaborating with conductor and brass musician Ryley Gillen.
Ryley Gillen is set to bring Gallery One to life as he performs live at an artist table evening to be held on Saturday 16 July in Gallery One.
The bugle was especially chosen as his instrument for this exhibition due to its connection to active service.
Just as the bugle was used to signal action in the troops, here the artists undertake a contemporary song cycle, as unexpected art forms harmonise.
The artist table event will be a unique opportunity to see these pieces working together live in the gallery space.
Artist Table Dinner
The artist table dinner will provide the opportunity to hear about the exhibition from Gallery Director Rebecca McDuff, while enjoying music from local artist Lewis McKee.
Guests will enjoy a relaxed dinner of slow-cooked meats, teamed with Ballistic Brewing Company beers and a selection of wines – perfect for a winter evening!
This is a very special dining event, and tickets are limited.
Time: 6.30pm – 9:30pm
Cost: $100 pp, includes dinner, dessert and drinks package. 18+ event.
You can purchase tickets for the event here.
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