Eddie Mabo exhibition a drawcard for NAFA
Date published: 12 July 2019
Townsville art lovers are being urged to view a tribute to Indigenous leader Eddie Mabo during NAIDOC Week.
The ‘Legacy: Reflections on Mabo’ exhibition at Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts features 25 Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists.
Community and Cultural Development Committee Chair Cr Colleen Doyle said the exhibition is an important part of the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA).
“Eddie Mabo is a key figure in Townsville’s history and it is wonderful to have these works here in NAIDOC Week,” Cr Doyle said.
“He achieved so much in his life and this collection showcases the impact he had on the country.”
Cr Doyle said ‘Legacy: Reflections on Mabo’ is different to other Mabo exhibitions.
“This is the first Eddie Mabo exhibition that has had significant input from his family – his daughter Gail Mabo is one of the curators of the show,” Cr Doyle said.
“Eddie Mabo spent most his adult life in Townsville and we are really happy this national tour is being launched here during the inaugural North Australian Festival of Arts.”
Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts Director Kellie Williams said the works reflect elements of Eddie Mabo’s life.
“Each artist was asked to respond to an aspect of Eddie Mabo that they admired so ‘Legacy: Reflections on Mabo’ touches on his life, politics, activism and legacy,” Ms Williams said.
“The Mabo case changed the foundation of Australian land law and this exhibition of indigenous and non-indigenous artists highlights the spirit of reconciliation.”
‘Legacy: Reflections on Mabo’ is curated by Gail Mabo, Jonathan McBurnie and Kellie Williams.
It will be on show at Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts until 11 August, before touring Australia for four years.
