'Together, the artists and their works powerfully reinforce that we always have been and always will be ever present.’- Tina Baum
Darrell Sibosado is included in Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia. Following a national and international tour, Ever Present returns to Kamberri/Canberra for its final showing at the National Gallery.
A survey of historical and contemporary works of art by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia, this exhibition draws from the national collection and Wesfarmers Collection of Australian Art. Although Ever Present is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, it does not shy away from Australia’s complex histories. The works challenge stereotypes about First Nations people and what defines their art. The artists contest populist views of Australian history, using art as a tool of resistance and replacing physical weaponry with wit, satire and juxtaposition to confront viewers and encourage conversations that are essential to disputing outdated myths and ideologies.
Ever Present includes over 260 works from more than 200 artists as it considers seven overarching and interlinked themes: Ancestors + Creators; Country + Constellations; Community + Family; Culture + Ceremony; Trade + Influence; Resistance + Colonisation; and Innovation + Identity.
Together the works underline the ever-present existence of our First Peoples.
Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia is presented by the National Gallery of Australia and Wesfarmers Arts.
Curator: Tina Baum, Gulumirrgin (Larrakia)/Wardaman/Karajarri peoples, Senior Curator of First Nations Art
Touring Dates
8 Dec 2021 – 18 Apr 2022 Art Gallery of Western Australia, WA
27 May – 25 Sep 2022 National Gallery Singapore, Singapore
29 Jul – 29 Oct 2023 Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, New Zealand
14 Sep 2024 – 24 Aug 2025 National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, ACT
Artwork:
Darrell Sibosado
Ngarrgidj Morr (the proper path to follow), 2022
powder-coated steel, LED tubes, fittings, electrical component
300 x 245 x 8 cm (each panel)
Collection of The National Gallery of Australia
