Waanyi woman and artist Judy Watson and fellow artist Helen Johnson, a second-generation immigrant of Anglo descent, exhibit new works together in the exhibition the red thread of history, loose ends, which bring complex perspectives on the roles of women in both contemporary and colonial Australia into view.
“Matrilineal experience is key to Watson’s work, while Johnson explores the symbolism of women and whiteness in historical illustration and contemporary media,” note the exhibition curators Tina Baum and Elspeth Pitt.
“It is that idea of breaking through and peeling back ignorance, looking at concealed history, at what lies beneath the ground; bringing that up to the viewer.” – Judy Watson.
Judy Watson & Helen Johnson: the red thread of history, loose ends, installation view, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, 2022. Courtesy the artists and National Gallery of Australia, Australian Capital Territory
National Gallery of Australia
19 February to 5 June 2022
Australian Capital Territory
