November 13, 2011 – February 12, 2012
Colleen Cutschal, L. Frank, Kieren Karritypu, Gracie Kumbi, Frank LaPena, Judith Lowry, Patricia Marrfurra, Mario Martinez, Dominica Mullins, Marita Sambono, Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann
Guest co-curator: Dr. Tressa Berman, Ph.D.
The exhibition The Spirit Within: Creation, Community and Renewal in Indigenous Art emerged from the theme of dadirri, what Aboriginal artist Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann – a renowned educator and artist from the Daly River community of Australia – describes as the deep spring that resides in all of us, a quiet contemplation or awareness that enriches our lives. As close observers of their environment, other Daly River artists join in the colorful play with nature, family, community and cultural retrieval through their art. In response to the inter-relatedness that this spirit within evokes, Native American artists reflect their own cultural standpoints through selected works that invite contemplation and cross-cultural dialogue. The visual exchange also connects us to the artists’ concerns with homeland and healing as important dimensions of creation, community, and renewal.
The Merrepen Arts Centre on the Daly River, Northern Territory, Australia provided works by Aborignal artists Kieren Karritypul, Gracie Kumbi, Patricia Marrfurra, Dominica Mullins and Marita Sambono. Founded in 1986, the Merrepen Arts Centre supports its community’s local artists who work in a variety of traditional and contemporary media and hosts an annual Arts and Sports Festival and a gallery that showcases its artist’s work year-round. Special thanks to Lizz Bott, CEO of the Merrepen Arts Centre, for facilitating the participation of its artists.
Programming + Events
Curator’s Discussion
Curator + Artist Led Tour
Catalogue
A full color brochure was printed on the occasion of the exhibition and is available for purchase. Please email info@manresagallery if you are interested in purchasing one.