SHARING THE NATIONAL COLLECTION: VIDEO ART LIGHTS UP HOBART

Four digital works by two First Nations artists will go on display at Moonah Arts Centre in north Hobart for two years thanks to the Albanese Labor Government’s Sharing the National Collection program.

Nicole Foreshew, a Wiradjuri woman, is a multi-disciplinary artist, writer and curator who works across photo media, sculpture, film and video. Her practice explores the Aboriginal concept of place, tracing personal histories and connections to communities.

Warwick Thornton, a Kaytetye man, is an acclaimed film maker best known for his 2023 film The New Boy and 2009 work Samson and Delilah. Thornton’s Way of the Ngangkari works explore his experience watching Star Wars as a child and recognising the parallels between the Jedi and Ngangkari traditional healers.  

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the Sharing the National Collection program provided unique ways for audiences to experience our national art.

“At any point, 98 per cent of our national collection is held in storage. Sharing the National Collection gets works like these out into communities across the country, where they can contribute to local arts and culture.”

“These fascinating works will be visible from the outside of Moonah Arts Centre for everyone to enjoy.

“Loans like this are increasing visitor numbers at our partner institutions while sharing some of our greatest works with communities across Australia.”

Director of the National Gallery, Dr Nick Mitzevich, said the loan was a showcase of First Nations talent.

“The National Gallery is the custodian of the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world, and the Sharing the National Collection program offers more opportunities to share works by First Nations artists across the country.

“We are delighted to partner with Moonah Arts Centre to bring video works by acclaimed contemporary artists Nicole Foreshew and Warwick Thornton to Tasmania.”

Ald. Sue Hickey, Mayor of Glenorchy said, “Glenorchy City Council is thrilled to join the Sharing the National Collection program, bringing four significant artworks by renowned First Nations artists to Moonah Arts Centre and creating an opportunity for people across Greater Hobart to experience this significant collection. We acknowledge the vital role art plays in strengthening our community – sharing diverse stories, offering new perspectives and building a greater sense of belonging.”

Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia’s National Cultural Policy. 

The program has provided $11.8 million over four years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen right across the country. 

Suburban, regional and remote galleries can register their interest in the loan program here.