Join us at NorthSite Contemporary Arts in Cairns for the launch of I, OBJECT, a Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art touring exhibition, including a panel discussion on 16 November 2024 from 10 AM to 2:30 PM, featuring acclaimed artist Vernon Ah Kee and associate professor Henrietta Marrie AM in conversation.

I, OBJECT showcases over 60 contemporary and historical works from QAGOMA’s Indigenous Australian Art collection.

Alair Pambegan / Wik-Mungkan people / Australia QLD b. 1966 / Kalben (detail) 2016-17 / Carved wood with synthetic polymer paint and natural pigments, raffia / 107 pieces ranging from 14 to 41cm in length (excluding raffia); installed dimensions variable / Purchased 2017. Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Art / © Alair Pambegan

Curated by Bruce Johnson McLean, the exhibition presents a diverse selection of paintings, sculptures, and installations by leading Queensland artists, alongside 20 historical shields, boomerangs, and clubs that highlight the deep cultural heritage of Indigenous craftsmanship.

This exhibition offers unique insights into the complex relationships Indigenous people have with objects, exploring themes of creation, collection, colonial impact, and cultural pride.

The I, OBJECT Panel Conversation will delve into the nature of Indigenous objects in a contemporary context. Engage in a dialogue about cultural motifs and protocols, the effect of power structures and knowledge systems in collecting institutions, repatriation of cultural material, and traditionally grounded objects in a contemporary context.

Limited seats available. Please book a free ticket to join.

A Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery Of Modern Art Touring exhibition. Exhibition runs until 24 December 2024, NorthSite at Bulmba-ja, Gimuy/Cairns.