Creative Australia - (Re)situate Venice Biennale
The Adelaide Biennial is the first of 3 major events for the (Re)situate Venice Biennale delegates, including myself, to participate in. This incredible opportunity allows us to immerse ourselves in the world of international art and experience firsthand the power of a prestigious biennale. It serves as a testament to the recognition and support given to emerging Australian artists and arts workers by Creative Australia.
Jazz Money - A Fusion of Art and Poetry
One of the standout artists at the Adelaide Biennial is Jazz Money, whose unique blend of visual art and poetry creates a mesmerizing experience for viewers. Their thoughtfully crafted pieces explore various themes, inviting us to reflect on society, identity, and personal narratives.
WINHANGANHA: A Dive into History
Jazzs' film premiere titled "WINHANGANHA: a deep dive into the film archives of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia" offers a captivating and at times devastating exploration of Aboriginal history. Through a curated selection of archival footage, this film takes us on a profound journey. It sheds light on the abhorrent treatment to the rich cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations people. This is a must-watch exhibition that showcases the black history of this country, often ignored or whitewashed to appease the viewer. This thought-provoking show challenges preconceived notions and invites us to engage with Aboriginal history. The film and audio capture the atrocities of a not-too-distant past, giving a clear slap in the face to history books and kickstarting the truth-telling process. While the film focuses on the treatment of our people, it also celebrates our culture, our arts, our activists, our elders, our children, and speaks to the strength and resilience of our people. I must admit, I needed lots of tissues and a good hug afterwards.
Conversations with Artists
One of the most rewarding aspects of attending the Adelaide Biennial is the opportunity to connect with artists on a personal level. From sharing a coffee to engaging in candid conversations about their artistic practice, artists such as Kaye Brown, Ali Cobby Eckermann, Teelah George, Ruha Fifita, Khaled Sabsabi, Christopher Bassi, and Marikit Santiago offer unique insights into their creative processes and experiences within the arts.
Face-to-face meeting with other delegates and the Creative Australia Team was a truly transformative experience. Despite initially feeling overwhelmed by imposter syndrome, I quickly realized that my story and experiences were just as valid as everyone else's. The warmth and support of my fellow delegates created a safe space for sharing, reflecting, and offering mutual support. This experience was invaluable in helping me gain confidence to share my ideas and opinions. It allowed me to develop a strong network of professionals and build meaningful relationships. I left Adelaide feeling empowered and inspired.
The 2024 Adelaide Biennial of Australian Art has been a captivating and enlightening experience, showcasing the depth and diversity of Australian artistic expression. From Jazz Money's poetic artworks to the exploration of Aboriginal history and engaging conversations with artists, this biennial has offered a profound insight into the ever-evolving world of art. As I leave this transformative event, I carry a renewed appreciation for the power of creativity and its ability to shape our understanding of the world.