Freedom. That's what being purely creative means to Kyra Mancktelow, the 26-year-old multidisciplinary artist and Quandamooka woman who seeks to interrogate and dismantle colonial mentalities through her commanding bronze sculptures, woven works and prints. As Mancktelow explains, creativity is "freedom to tell my story, explore untold histories and continue my family's legacy.
Whether she's making artworks for a solo exhibition, a wider survey at institutions such as Brisbane's Institute of Modern Art, or for public art projects - Mancktelow has led projects for Brisbane and Logan City Councils and the University of Queensland - the artist describes her process as ever-changing and fluid. "When inspiration hits, I run with it," she explains. (Though, she admits, creativity often strikes late at night. "No interruptions!") Working in a variety of mediums, including clay, bronze, printmaking, natural fibres and textiles - sometimes at the same time, such as the bronze dillybags cast from woven samples Mancktelow fashioned using historic Indigenous techniques - the artist strives to "educate audiences and strengthen my connection to Country" through her work.
Such as One continuous string (2021), a handmade garment and dilly bag crafted using a traditional weave from natural fibres and flora collected on Quandamooka Country.
Based in Brisbane, Mancktelow is currently embarking on her doctoral studies, which will involve research into the colonial garments worn by Indigenous Australians and South Sea Islanders. Also this year, she will unveil an exhibition of prints showcasing clothing worn during protests in Australia held at N.Smith Gallery in Sydney. Mancktelow is excited for "institutional change" to take place in the world of art.
"There are some amazing new curators coming through who are making space for new and different voices," she reflects. "The voices have always been there. They're not getting the platform they deserve."
