Free, bookings essential
Duration: 3 hrs 30 mins
11–12pm: Artist in conversation (Gallery 6)
1–2.30pm: Fishing net weaving workshop (Learning Studio)
Join cross-cultural Wiradjuri, Irish and German artist Karla Dickens, in conversation with Adam Ford, Nyoongar (Menang/Goreng) people, Associate Curator, First Nations Art, followed by a hands-on fishing net weaving workshop.
Starting in Gallery 6, Dickens will discuss the installation, The nips are getting bigger 2024, currently on display as part of Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia. This work juxtaposes limited edition Captain Cook RN whiskey bottles with feathers and adornments to present an alternative narrative of colonisation and its ongoing devastating effects on Aboriginal people. Dickens will share how she uses found and recycled objects to create sculptural works and installations.
The conversation will be followed by a workshop with the artist to experiment with fishing net weaving techniques using recycled objects.
✨What to bring:
Creative Conversations is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. All children must be accompanied by a participating adult. No previous experience required, and all recycled materials used during the workshop will be supplied.
Participants are encouraged to bring a packed lunch to enjoy in the Learning Studio between the talk and workshop. Please pack your lunch in a bag 30x 30cm or smaller. Cloaking is available for larger bags.
Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia is on display at the National Gallery until the 24 Aug 2025.
This program is part of the National Gallery of Australia’s NAIDOC Week Program. NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”.
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