And the artist behind the work has never been afraid to make her or her First Nations culture known, either.
Maree Clarke, a multidisciplinary artist and proud Yorta Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Mutti Mutti and Boonwurrung woman, will showcase both at an artist talk on Wednesday, March 5, hosted by Kaiela Arts in partnership with Shepparton Art Museum.
With a particular focus on her open and collaborative approach, Ms Clarke will delve into her artistic practice and reflect on her work thus far.
Then, the magic starts.
The inaugural Kaiela Arts Editions, a new partnership project between Kaiela Arts and Spacecraft Melbourne, will see Ms Clarke make her mark with a specially commissioned artwork in Shepparton.
Set to launch in May, the limited-edition artwork aims to uplift local talent, cultivate pride within the Yorta Yorta community, and raise funds for Kaiela Arts — one of only two Aboriginal art centres in Victoria.
Although Ms Clarke’s concept for the new work has not been revealed, her 30 years of cultural storytelling strongly indicates what it may involve.
The artist is dedicated to reclaiming cultural objects from south-eastern First Nations, reviving and sharing knowledge that was once lost or dormant as a consequence of colonisation.
There is still much work to be done.
But each piece of art and storytelling exchange — like at the artist talk — is another step towards understanding and empowerment.
Artist Talk with Maree Clarke is on Wednesday, March 5, from 1pm to 2pm at the Shepparton Art Museum, Level 4, 530 Wyndham St, Shepparton.
To register for the free event, visit events.humanitix.com/mcsam/tickets
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