‘State of the Union’ highlights the years when interactions between artists and the labour movement in Australia were strong; when in the 1930s and 40s political convictions of social realist artists were reflected in artworks defining the hardships of workers and their families; and the 1970s and 80s when visual artists were funded to undertake residencies at trades halls and union-affiliated workplaces around the country. Over 30 artists and collectives exhibit contemporary and historical works, while panel discussions will further explore their themes.
Im Heung-Soon, Factory Complex, 2014, video still. Courtesy the artist, BANDAL, Seoul and The Ian Potter Museum of Art, Melbourne
Richard Lewer, What is a Scab? A Traitor…, 2011, oil on canvas, 60 x 60cm. Courtesy the artist, Hugo Michell Gallery, South Australia, and The Ian Potter Museum of Art, Melbourne
The Ian Potter Museum of Art
Until 28 October, 2018
Melbourne
