Darren Blackman, a Gureng Gureng, Gangulu and South Sea Islander visual artist, mentor and curator, has spent his R|Artist Residency: Sub Tropic developing new work for his upcoming solo exhibition at Onespace Gallery in South Brisbane. Selected pieces will also be previewed at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) in July.

During his residency, Darren has not only created new work but also mentored emerging First Nations artists. The Sub Tropic residency has offered him dedicated time and space to research, curate and develop works for several upcoming shows including Post Truth (Onespace Gallery), Pay Attention! (CIAF), No Souvenirs (The Old Ambo) and Bittersweet(Munimba-ja Gallery).

By experimenting with text, symbols and shape, Darren creates illusions and patterns grounded in a bold street aesthetic. His minimal, text-based works honour the banners and voices of his Elders who marched for justice in 1970s Brisbane. Drawing from First Nations creole and Australian urban slang, his playful and politically charged language transforms into witty, defiant neon sculptures.

Join us for an informal evening to preview works in progress, including text-based neon installations and curatorial mock-ups. This showing offers a behind-the-scenes look into Darren’s creative process and his curatorial approach as he prepares for a season of career defining exhibitions.

Event Details

Where: Sub Tropic Studio, 23 Cooma Terrace, Caloundra
When: Thursday, 5 June
Time:
5:30pm – 6:15pm: Open Studio with drinks and nibbles
6:15pm – 7:00pm: Artist Talk facilitated by Toni Wills
Cost: Free, RSVP essential

Parking:
Free parking available at the Caloundra Bus Interchange (top two levels).

R|Artist Residency: Sub Tropic is a 20-week program designed for early-career creative practitioners, offering studio space, operational support, a $1,200 materials budget, and profile-building opportunities. Running 1 March – 14 July, this residency is delivered by SCCA as part of The Refinery. Supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council through the Arts and Heritage Levy, and the Creative Ecologies Research Cluster at UniSC.