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A year of cultural exploration culminates at Umbrella with diverse artistic voices

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published October 11, 2024 at 5.30pm (AWST)

Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts is set to launch its final exhibition round for 2024, showcasing a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and history through the works of Filipino Australian artist Ben Tupas and a cohort of young Indigenous artists.

Mindanao Story Cycle by Ben Tupas is a trilogy of video works that delve into the artist's personal and cultural journey.

Through moving images, sound, and symbolism, Mr Tupas reflects on three generations of his family history, navigating disparate worlds and exploring the embodied experience of belonging.

"This is the very first time this body of work will be exhibited together and I'm thankful for the opportunity to do this at Umbrella," he said.

"I'm excited to share it with the Townsville community and look forward to seeing how people respond to the work.

"As a first-generation Filipino Australian, I think the themes of identity and belonging will particularly resonate with the Filipino community who have made Townsville their home."

Aitkenvale State School Yama's Dreaming [front detail] 2023. (Image: Supplied/Greg Hamblin)

People, Culture & Country 2024 will highlight the vibrant creations of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, alongside their non-Indigenous peers from state schools across North Queensland.

Guided by Indigenous artists, these collaboratively crafted wearable artworks celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage while reflecting the diverse experiences of the students.

This initiative aims to foster understanding, respect, and cultural appreciation within the broader community.

Both exhibitions will be complemented by a range of public programs, including artist floor talks and workshops, providing valuable opportunities for community engagement.

Gallery Manager and Curator Daniel Qualischefski said they are "incredibly proud of the work we've done this year to support and promote North Queensland artists and to bring complementary artists' voices and stories to this region."

"We love to showcase artists working in diverse media and at different career stages, and our final 2024 exhibitions epitomise the balance of all these wonderful priorities."

Both Umbrella exhibitions will launch at 6pm on Friday, 1 November.

More information is available on the Umbrella website.

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National Indigenous Times

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