LINES IN THE SAND
What : Lines in the Sand
When : Right now! Till 28th May
Why : It’s splendid
Lines in the Sand is an exhibition that explores the events of 1770 and 1788 at local Botany Bay, with artworks by both indigenous and non indigenous artists. The Hazelhurst Gallery chose this concept to coincide with the Apology to the Stolen Generations.
The theme of the exhibition is the local landings at Botany Bay in 1770 and 1788, with an indigenous viewpoint explored through the various mediums. Curator Ace Burke was essential in the authenticity of the piece.
“We commissioned curator Ace Burke, his art is colonial, aboriginal inspired. Also his family lineage is connected with the landings. Plus he lives in the area, so there’s a local connection” said Hazelhurst curator Dan Cunningham.
The exhibition is split into 1770 and 1788, with artworks coming from both indigenous and non-indigenous artists.
The European impression of Botany Bay upon arrival, highlighted in many of the pieces, juxtaposed with the indigenous view of foreigners adds a visual narrative to our checkered history.
The sand installation Untitled by artist Daniel Boyd is indicative of the message of Lines in the Sand. By using natural elements, and creating ripples, to stand for repercussions, Boyd has become in tune with sympathetic message of indigenous acceptance in 2008.
Lines in the Sand is an exhibition that is important to Hazelhurst and the Sutherland Shire because it delves into indigenous history of the area. The Botany Bay landings are detrimental to the identity of the Sutherland Shire residents. The exhibition has a celebratory feel, with indigenous artists such as Gordon Bennett and Tracey Moffatt featuring. However the ignorance and bitterness felt by some of the indigenous community is still represented with the Boat People photos, which are startling and confronting.
The Hazelhurst Gallery undertook this exhibition in conjunction with the Federal Government’s apology to the Indigenous population.
This exhibition acts as a pretext to the events of 2008. The focus on Botany Bay landings in the late 1770’s offers the local resident a sense of their own history, and a snapshot of the lives of indigenous people, and European settlers upon arrival.
This politically charged and emotionally stirring exhibition is the perfect compliment to the topical and current discussion of indigenous issues in modern day society, from a historical standpoint.
