Virtual art exhibition on stolen generation

KUCHING: A virtual exhibition here promises to take audiences on a journey through history, art and reconciliation.

Its is being put together by Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) in partnership with Curtin University’s John Curtin Gallery to bring the storied legacy of the aboriginal settlement of Carrolup into the digital age.

The Carrolup Metaverse will be one of the star attractions at the inaugural Borneo International Festival of Arts (BIFA) 2024, from July 26 to 27 at Curtin Malaysia’s Recreation and Event Centre.

“For the first time in Malaysia, the Carrolup Metaverse will transport visitors into a digital showcase that pays homage to the Carrolup children, whose art stands as a testament to resilience and a bridge to their heritage,”it said in a statement Thursday (July25).

The Carrolup children, part of Australia’s Stolen Generations, were tragically torn from their families and communities. Under the nurturing guidance of their teacher, Noel White, they found solace and a means of expression through their art.

The digital showcase at BIFA 2024 will feature over 200 paintings and drawings from The Herbert Mayer Collection of Carrolup Artwork, created during the late 1940s at the Carrolup Native Settlement.

After a 63-year sojourn, this precious collection has returned to Noongar Boodja, thanks to an extraordinary partnership between Colgate University in New York, Curtin University, and the Noongar peoples of Western Australia.

This homecoming is commemorated in the exhibition ‘Kalyagool Karni-Wangkiny (Telling Truth Always) – A Decade of Carrolup,” marking a decade since the artworks’ return to Western Australia, and symbolising resilience, healing, and reconciliation.

“This is a very special honour and privilege for people in Miri, and those attending BIFA 2024, as this is the first time the Carrolup Metaverse is being showcased in Malaysia. Not only that, it will be the first and a very unique digital or AI experience for many,” said Curtin Malaysia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Simon Leunig.

“We invite the public to attend BIFA 2024 and witness this extraordinary display of creativity and courage. Let the Carrolup Metaverse take you on a journey that transcends time and space, connecting us all to the legacy of the Carrolup child artists,” he added.

Attendance at BIFA 2024 is free of charge and other attractions during the festival include exhibitions of art and photography, mural painting, dance performances, interactive workshops and activities, the popular Miri Artisan Market, and art competitions for primary and secondary schools.

For more information on BIFA, contact Curtin Malaysia’s Corporate Affairs Department at 085-630 100 ext. 2658 or by email to [email protected].