Resurgence takes flight to Newcastle Museum

Speaking in Colour’s annual Cultural Resurgence exhibition returns to Newcastle Museum on Thursday 11 May, proudly brought to the community by Newcastle Permanent.

This year’s artworks have been created by more than 600 students from preschool through to university, and community members from across the region.

Speaking in Colour Managing Director CHERIE JOHNSON says the 2023 Cultural Resurgence is a timely reminder for everyone who attends the exhibition that Australia has one of the oldest cultures in the world and these traditional practices showcase techniques handed down for many generations.

“Our resurgence programs are so important for Aboriginal people to connect with culture but also for all Australians to learn more about our ancient culture. To be able to share knowledge, create culturally appropriate artworks and have them on display in such a popular venue is a real privilege for all involved.

“The exhibition, on display until the end of July 2023, for the first time will encompass National Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week which is perfect alignment given it is such a significant year in our reconciliation journey.”

Newcastle Permanent Chief Distribution Officer, Paul Juergens, said the customer-owned bank was proud to deliver the 2023 Cultural Resurgence.

“Five primary and secondary schools, two early childhood services, two community groups, one community provider and one university have all been a part of cultural enrichment programs from Speaking in Colour, culminating in the exhibition,” says Mr Juergens.

“Newcastle Permanent sponsorship means anyone and everyone can attend this important exhibition for free, as well as enjoy free guided tours, allowing you to gain an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Indigenous art.

“We encourage everyone to attend the exhibition – especially in the lead up to National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.”

The showcase includes the following works

• Allambi Care – ‘Malang’ Water Dragon
• Hunter School of the Performing Arts – ‘Taking Flight’
• Macquarie College Preschool – ‘Rosie’ the Kookaburra
• Singleton Public School – ‘Bluey’ the Blue Tongue Lizard
• United Preschool Caves Beach – ‘Caves Eagle’
• The Wollotuka Institute – ‘Birabahn’s Flight – A Journey of Cultural Connection and Belonging’
• Wiripaang Public School – ‘The Birds and the Bees’
• Hunter Women’s Weaving Group – ‘Aunty Eb and Aunty Flo’
• Glendale East Public School – ‘Echidna’
• umali barai-ku - Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre – ‘umali barai-ku – to do for the earth’
• Abermain Public School – ‘Abermain Cloak’ – Teenaged size cloak
• Speaking in Colour Aboriginal Women’s Retreat – Adult size cloak, and woven wearables

Exhibition programs

• 14 May - Mothers Day Weaving Workshop – Bookings essential
• 25 May - Speaking in Colour opening – Exhibition participants and media
• 30 May - National Reconciliation Week event (Date TBC)
• 7 June - Possum Skin Cloak TPL (NESA)
• 27 June - Interwoven TPL (NESA)
•  16, 18, 20, 25, 28, 30 May -  One hour Curator talks at 10.30am and 12noon, bookings essential call 1300 346 064
• 1, 3, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 23, 24, 27 and 29 June - One hour Curator talks at 10.30am and 12noon, bookings essential call 1300 346 064
• 1 July - One hour Curator talks at 10.30am and 12noon, bookings essential call 1300 346 064

2023 Cultural Resurgence Exhibition proudly brought to you by Newcastle Permanent.

On exhibition at Newcastle Museum until Monday 31 July.