Sung Into Being

A rare chance to see over 100 paintings and sculptures by eight significant Australian Aboriginal artists is being offered with Sung Into Being: Aboriginal Masterworks 1984-94 at the Queensland Art Gallery.

The artworks come from the Janet Holmes à Court Collection, with the artists being Rover Joolama Thomas, Jack Kalakala, Les Mirrikkuriya, England Banggala, Terry Ngamandara Wilson, and Jack Wunuwun and his brother-in-law John Bulunbulun (who have two important series of paintings in the exhibition depicting their clan manikay – song cycles).

The exhibition’s stunning creations were done when these Indigenous artists were exploring new artistic ground regarding their creation stories and clan lands, and were acquired with great foresight by Janet Holmes à Court and her husband, Robert, for their internationally renowned art collection.

Particular focus is given to Rover Thomas, one of the first Indigenous Australian artists acquired for the collection. He forged new conventions in Aboriginal art and created new opportunities for the east Kimberley school of artists, along the way opening the way for the wider acceptance of Aboriginal art. A couple of his major works include Djundugal (Rainbow Serpent) and Dreaming Place.

Sung Into Being is an exhibition exclusive to Queensland, and with free entry is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to become acquainted with these special works. Says Premier and Arts Minister, Annastacia Palaszczuk, “This exhibition of important works… is another great addition to the Queensland cultural precinct program, which offers wonderful and varied cultural experiences for local, interstate and international visitors.”

The exhibition is supported by the Gallery’s new Hotel Partner, Art Series Hotel Group, and Wine Partner, Yering Station.

Need to know - Janet Holmes à Court will be in Brisbane for the Opening Weekend programs, and will appear with exhibition curator, Diane Moon, for a walking tour of the exhibition 11.30am on Saturday, 22 July.

Nice to know - Visitors can enjoy a 'Lunch and Lecture' session on Thursday July 27th, with a tour by curator Diane Moon and a 2-course lunch of main and dessert, with glass of wine, tea and coffee ($55pp, members $45) RSVP by Jul 21. Bookings online

By Vicki Englund