Under our Community Engagement Program Blak Dot is proud to host ‘Our Deadly Spirit’ this three week exhibition celebrates the work of four young people exploring their cultural knowledge and identity through various art mediums. This exhibition is proudly presented by the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency’s (VACCA) and an outcome of their 2016 Art Mentoring Project.

A group of budding young Aboriginal artists have had a once in a lifetime opportunity to be mentored by some of the state’s leading artists in the Aboriginal art community—including Melbourne Museum’s senior curator for Southeastern Australia Aboriginal Collections, Kimberley Moulton and renowned artist Maree Clarke—the six month initiative for 15 – 21 year olds is holistic and is structured to promote healing whilst also providing avenues for the young people to explore the opportunities to pursue a career in the arts.

“We are fortunate to have the support of prominent artists from the community who share their knowledge, journeys and personal stories with the young people in our program. Our mentors are incredibly inspirational and I see the impact they have on our youth as they reflect on their own story and culture and how it can be expressed through their art,” said Professor Muriel Bamblett, CEO of VACCA.

We recognise that a lot of young Aboriginal children turn to art in their grief and loss, which is why this program is such an important part of their healing.

Throughout the six months they learn that there is a proud art tradition that is very diverse and they often feel a connection with contemporary artists who express their cultural journey through art.

When we hosted our first exhibition the kids were blown away, they couldn’t believe that people wanted to buy their art and they got to make some money. It’s a really exciting culmination and celebration of their hard work,” said Professor Bamblett.

Wheelchair accessible