Artist Blak Douglas is set to join forces with curator Djon Mundine for a discussion on the ideas behind current Penrith Regional Gallery exhibition, The Halfway Line.
The in-conversation discussion, scheduled for Sunday 23 March, will see the duo discuss the inspiration which informs much of Blak Douglas' work through shared stories and histories.
The Halfway Line strives to survey the expansive and incisive career of Dunghutti artist, Blak Douglas.
Spanning painting, photography, drawing and sculpture, The Halfway Line charts the emergence of Douglas' career, beginning in the industrial estates of Penrith, through to winning the 2022 Archibald Prize.
K9 vs Bloodline On The Breadline 2008 synthetic polymer paint on canvas, courtesy the artist. (Image: supplied)
Featuring works from major public and private collections, The Halfway Line is the largest presentation of Douglas' work presented in the heart of Western Sydney.
"While my art isn't about the Dreaming, it reflects living in the modern Dreaming. I hope it inspires others to pick up a pen and sketch their loved ones," Douglas said.
Penrith Regional Gallery director, Toby Chapman, said The Halfway Line is more than just an exhibition.
"The Halfway Line is a space of celebration and reflection, recognising Douglas as a seminal figure in the development of contemporary First Nations art in Australia," Chapman said.
"Equally, it's an opportunity for the artist to reflect on his own trajectory, sharing moments of insight and vulnerability."
Moby Dickens 2022, synthetic polymer paint on canvas. Courtesy the Art Gallery of NSW, purchased with funds provided by the Aboriginal Art Collection Benefactors 2022. (Image: supplied)
As Penrith Regional Gallery director, Chapman's focus is to work with leading contemporary artists who share an interest in local community and contexts.
Penrith has had a significant impact on Douglas' early practice, having studied graphic design at Nepean TAFE before taking up the brush and canvas.
Since his first exhibition in the industrial estates of Penrith, Douglas has been recognised for his bold, expressive style and incisive wit, often providing commentary on the social issues of the day.
Penrith Regional Gallery welcomes and encourages both art fanatics and the general public to come along and join the discussion.
Blak Douglas in conversation with curator Djon Mundine will take place on Sunday 23 March at Penrith Regional Gallery.
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