Kimberley stories travel to Perth

All That Country Holds, a major art exhibition featuring 10 artists’ works from across the Kimberley, is headed to the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts in April.

Following its world premiere in Washington DC late last year, the homecoming presentation will feature 42 artworks across various media celebrating the region’s stories, culture and traditions.

Curated by Zali Morgan, the exhibition brings together the creative strength of six Kimberley art centres collaborating as Kimberley Aboriginal Art and Culture.

Ten leading artists have come together to create the works that highlight the Kimberley’s country and form the exhibition.

The Kimberley artists featured in the exhibition include Angelina Karadada Boona, Ben Ward, Evelyn Malgil, Jan Griffiths, John Prince Siddon, Leah Umbagai, Mary-Lou Divilli, Mervyn Street, Pauline Sunfly and Miriam Baadjo.

From shifting skies and creation stories to community life, the works reveal all that Country holds: knowledge passed down, resilience in the face of change, and the enduring strength of the First Peoples of the Kimberley

WA Premier Roger Cook said the State was proud to see the exhibition presented on the global stage in Washington and return home to Perth.

“This collection highlights the Kimberley as one of the most dynamic cultural regions in Australia,” he said.

“Aboriginal voices are at the heart of our cultural agenda, shaping how we connect with each other and with the world. “

Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said the exhibition marked a proud moment for the Kimberley to showcase its talent on a global and local scale.

“Artists from Fitzroy Crossing, Balgo, Kalumburu, Warmun, Mowanjum, and Kununurra standing shoulder to shoulder in Washington DC, sharing the spirit of their communities with the world,” he said.

“The Cook Government’s support has helped ensure Kimberley artists can showcase their work internationally, strengthening local economies and building new opportunities for regional arts organisations.”

The exhibition is supported by funding from the Regional Arts and Cultural Investment Program and grants from Arts Projects for Organisations.

All That Country Holds will run from April 18 to June 14 at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts.