Image credits L to R:
Lucy Simpson, Baayangalibiyaay, 2023, Yuwaalaraay, approx.14 cm x 8 cm varied. Image courtesy the artist;
Dr Virginia Keft, Matjam (Flying Fox) Coming Home After the Fire, 2024. Image courtesy the artist;
Dr Virginia Keft, mirrinj (star), 2022 [Detail]. Image courtesy the artist;
Lucy Simpson, Baayangalibiyaay, 2023, Yuwaalaraay, approx.14 cm x 8 cm varied. Image courtesy the artist.
Cleanse, protect, renew - the flames of fire bear witness through this First Nations community art exhibition at the Coal Loader on Cammeraygal Country, 12 October to 3 November 2024.
North Sydney Council is proud to present Keep the Fire Burning, a First Nations community art exhibition taking place on Cammeraygal Country this spring.
Running from 12 October to 3 November 2024, this free exhibition will explore the transformative and enduring power of fire in First Nations culture, art and storytelling in Tunnel One of the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.
Taking its title from the 2024 NAIDOC theme Keep the Fire Burning, the exhibition breathes life into stories both new and old. Curated by Jodie Dowd, this exhibition features works of eight First Nations artists who have used the fire element into their creations or stories.
Fire forms a central part of each artwork. Fire was used to eco-dye silks and weavings for the collaborative artwork by First Nations community members, stories of passion are shared through sounds and moving images, and forms have been forged through flames to create glass works and designs on possum skin cloaks.
Alongside the exhibition, a series of public programs will also take place, including tours, artist talks, and hands-on workshops. These programs will provide deeper insights into the cultural significance of the artworks and offer opportunities for visitors to engage directly with the artists and their creative processes.
Curated by Jodie Dowd, the artists featured in Keep the Fire Burning include:
- Amanda Jane Reynolds
- Dr. Virginia Keft
- Kieran Satour
- Lucy Simpson
- Courtney Marsh-Curry
- Nathan Mudyi Sentance
- Dr. Emma Hicks
- Amethyst Downing-McLeod
- Jodie Dowd
This exhibition invites the community to engage with the profound cultural significance of fire in First Nations art and to reflect on its role as a catalyst for change, healing, and continuity.
Keep the Fire Burning is a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between land, community, and culture.
Exhibition is open for viewing Thursday to Sunday only.
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