Annual Noongar Country exhibition returns to Bunbury

This year, more than 30 artists have responded to the theme, Six Seasons, and the resulting exhibition features artworks by artists at all stages of their career.

From emerging artists through to nationally recognised practitioners, all pieces tell a range of stories about connection to country.

Manager of arts and culture Julian Bowron said the exhibition gives everyone the opportunity to learn more about indigenous history and culture in the region.

“The stories and the talent held by our indigenous community is extraordinary,” he said.

“Noongar Country is an opportunity to showcase the depth and breadth of this talent to a wide audience.”

For something a little different this year, BRAG has collaborated with Maker and Co and Boodja Group to coordinate the exhibition, alongside the development of a regional Noongar Arts Strategy which aims to support and promote Noongar culture more effectively in the South West.

Boodja Group managing director and exhibition coordination Melissa Khan said art is a universal language that allows us to all speak to each other, no matter our differences.

“The importance and significance of artistic representation of culture truly honours Aboriginal people’s traditional way of documenting and sharing knowledge,” she said.

“Creative interpretation is intrinsic to our being and our natural way of expression, it is with and through the arts that we truly can connect, educate and empower people on a multitude of uniquely individual levels.”

The 2017 exhibition will be officially opened at 6pm on Friday, June 30 by Murri woman and Art Gallery of WA curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts Carly Lane, and will feature live entertainment from Mandurah performer Barron Kelly.

Cash prizes will be awarded for best overall, highly commended and youth.

All are welcome to attend with the exhibition on display from 1 July to 3 September. BRAG is open seven days a week and entry is free.