‘Artstate Lismore’ is the inaugural iteration of a new four-year program bringing regional artists and arts organisations together through conversation, partnerships and opportunities with the aim of highlighting the vibrancy of the arts sector in regional areas.
‘Artstate’ opens with a special concert ‘Djanda Mandi Gingerlah’ – a gathering of Widjubul Custodians, Elders and dancers from across the Bundjalung nation and New South Wales, at the Lismore Quadrangle on 30 November from 7-9.30pm – a free, family friendly event. The program is scheduled to take place across several venues within the City of Lismore until 3 December, and includes a two-day conference hosted by a selection of arts industry delegates, complimented by a diverse arts program of theatre, music, dance, film and visual arts featuring artists from regional New South Wales.
The two-day conference on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December examines themes of creative practice and partnerships with keynote speakers, panel discussions, short talks and masterclasses. Among many others, speakers include: Rhoda Roberts, a member of the Bundjalung nation who is Head of Indigenous Programming, Sydney Opera House, Creative Director, Gallery & Events, Festival Director, Boomerang Festival and Curator of the second annual ‘Parrtijima – A Festival in Light’ Alice Springs, as well as Karoline Trollvik, Director of ‘Riddu Riđđu Festivála’, Norway’s international Indigenous arts and culture festival, the largest Indigenous festival in northern Europe.
Bretyn Nugnan, Nunngu Jiinda-Kangaroo Sister (detail), 2017, enamel and acrylic on canvas. Courtesy the artist and Lismore Regional Gallery, New South Wales
Visual arts highlights include two exhibitions at the newly renovated Lismore Regional Gallery; ‘Dreaming Trails’, a partnership between Lismore Regional Gallery and Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre, curated by Gumbaynggirr cultural worker, Alison Williams, which features artists Kylie Caldwell, Jai Walker, Brentyn Lugnan, Kim Healey, Jeremy Mudjai Devitt, Frances Belle Parker and Digby Moran. ‘Four Women (I do belong)’, curated by Djon Mundine inspired by Nina Simone’s song ‘Four Women’ (1966) features four Aboriginal and four non-Aboriginal artists who speak of a deep and metaphysical connection to the land, the modern history and environment of the Northern Rivers region – Karla Dickens, Fiona Foley and Romaine Moreton (in collaboration with Lou Bennett), Wart, Therese Ritchie in collaboration with Jacky Green and Seán Kerins), Nasim Nasr, Teena McCarthy and Carolyn Strachan in collaboration with Alessandro Cvadeni.
Other highlights include: ‘Weavers Gathering’ – Indigenous weavers from the Bundjalung Nation showcasing weaving techniques and celebrating culture. The Northern Rivers Performing Arts premiere of ‘Djurra’, as well as a line-up of other local talent including Tora, The Wharves, Sarah Tindley, Blakboi, Tra La La Blip and Tullara. Brunswick Picture House’s ‘Cheeky Cabaret’ – a combination of circus, vaudeville and comedy, while ‘The Daughters of the Rum Rebellion’ reveals the hidden history of Australia’s female bushrangers, starring Gleny Rae and Ilona Harker. And performances of Roundabout Theatre’s new interactive production, ‘Colours daily’ will be on for children.
‘Artstate’ closes with a free concert by the Regional Youth Orchestra, a selection of young musicians from 17 regional conservatoriums on Sunday 3 December, 11-12.30pm.
‘Artstate Lismore’ is open to artists, community and cultural leaders and workers, local government who seek inspiration, ideas, partnerships and possibilities.
For details of the free and ticketed events visit www.artstate.com.au
