17 March 2017 – Media Release
I AM, YOU ARE, WE ARE, THEY ARE
The Peacock Gallery will open a provocative new exhibition exploring identity in contemporary Australia on March 21, on view until May 14. Curated by Tian Zhang, I AM, YOU ARE, WE ARE, THEY ARE brings together the works of four Sydney based artists to explore the place of the individual in the modern nation state.
Artists Abdul Abdullah, Idil Abdullahi, Liam Benson and Amala Groom have drawn upon their own experiences to create works touching upon identity, representation, visibility and belonging. The exhibition delves into the tension between the individual and the state, with many works created in direct response to particular national policies, issues or imagery.
Curator Tian Zhang sought input from the diverse community living around the Peacock Gallery, with local residents providing feedback and consultation during the research stage of the show. The final result is a thoughtful handling of the hot button issues of our time, including Aboriginal Sovereignty, Islamophobia, feminism, refugees and the rights of the LGBTIQ community.
For Zhang, the starting point of the exhibition was growing up in the 1990s as a Chinese-Australian, when fears over Asian immigration reached a fever pitch.
“I became aware that my own personal identity no longer fit into the national narrative,” Zhang said.
“As a curator, I wanted to present an exhibition where people from different backgrounds could see themselves and their viewpoints represented.”
“My vision for I Am, You Are, We Are, They Are was to facilitate a space for the public to consider the concept of ‘Australianness’ – how this construct of national identity is created and by whom, how this construct impacts communities and individuals and how we are able to move forward towards a shared national identity that is a true reflection of the diversity of our country.”
I AM, YOU ARE, WE ARE, THEY ARE
When: 21 March – 14 May
Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00am – 4:00pm
Where: Peacock Gallery and Arts Studio, Auburn
Cnr Chiswick and Chisholm Roads, Auburn, NSW, 2144
Cost: Free
For further information, to arrange artist interviews or photo opportunities please contact Jenny Cheeseman, Art Coordinator, Cumberland Council on 9735 1396.
