Skin
Deep
is a fibre-based mixed media installation, a series of wall works based
on the irregular forms of the traditional possum skin cloaks worn by
tribal Aborigines and the historic blanket issue form, found
on Missions and Government Reserves across Australia.
Aboriginal Land Rights and Native Title issues continue to be of great
concern to our communities. This installation is part of an on-going
series celebrating Aboriginal history and honouring some of the heroes
who fought to retain their lands against dispossession and to reclaim
lands that were lost.
The difference in time-scale, regional history and the final shape of
each work is balanced by the linear patterns of relevant colonial maps.
The mapping of lands was the colonial method of marking, of naming and
possession: in each piece the maps are overlayed with photo images from
the life stories of the subject. Variations on the black, red and yellow
colours of the Aboriginal flag further unify the series.
This work addresses the interface between Aboriginal culture and contemporary
technologies. Contemporary printing technologies and computer programs
have combined to reconstructs the past, the original and historic archival
images and photographs combine with the simulated rendering of traditional
fibre techniques, such as patchwork, quilting and applique.
The exhibition will tour NSW Regional galleries in 2004-5.
Aboriginal Moral Rights and copyright protocol have been observed and
archival references publicly acknowledged.
media: digital imaging transfer prints, inkjet prints on cotton and
paper
fibre materials: cotton, quilt lining, wadding, beads, string, curtain
rods.
ABC ONLINE Message
Stick extra » Brenda Saunders Skin Deep
