Art enthusiasts and culture seekers – get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey that will transport you through time and space while celebrating the rich heritage of Australia.
Connection is an immersive new experience that weaves together the threads of First Peoples’ art, music and culture with the magic of cutting-edge technology.
Prepare to be amazed!
Imagine stepping into a world where art comes to life and ancient stories are whispered through vibrant visuals and captivating melodies.
Connection boasts an impressive collection of over 550 digital and original artworks from more than 110 visual and musical artists, making it the largest assembly of First Peoples’ art ever seen. This groundbreaking showcase has been curated in collaboration with the National Museum of Australia.
The sheer magnitude of Connection is awe-inspiring. The 3,000 square metres of immersive gallery space envelops you in a symphony of sights and sounds.
Gaze up at projections four storeys high, surrounded by an array of multi-sensory experiences that breathe life into the works of Australia’s most celebrated First Nations artists.
From the brushstrokes of Emily Kame Kngwarreye and Tommy Watson to the contemporary expressions of Sarrita King and Kate Constantine, their art takes on new dimensions, amplified by the emotional soundtrack featuring First Nations artists like Yothu Yindi, Baker Boy, and Gurrumul.
Connection is a journey through the lens of Land, Water, and Sky Country that intricately weaves First Peoples’ diverse stories. It’s a celebration of culture that every Australian can take pride in, as it maps the connections between people and place, past and present.
As you traverse the exhibition, you’ll encounter powerful narratives and gain a deeper understanding of the traditional meaning and contemporary significance of rituals like the Welcome to Country.
But the experience doesn’t stop there. Connection invites you to delve deeper into the essence of Country—the concept that holds profound meaning for First Peoples across Land, Water, and Sky.
Through the insightful guidance of curator Margo Ngawa Neale, you’ll grasp the significance of Country and how it shapes the identity and stories of its custodians.
In this immersive journey, you’ll also uncover the stories behind the remarkable songlines and gain a newfound appreciation for their importance in sustaining Indigenous heritage.
At Connection, you’ll witness the power of art as a medium for storytelling. Including traditional and contemporary methods employed by First Nations artists, immersing yourself in a world where culture becomes visible, palpable, and alive.
There are no time limits or set paths to follow. You’re invited to savour the experience at your own pace, pausing to absorb the beauty and meaning of each piece.
Enjoy a blissful 1-2 hours in the gallery, restaurant, and other captivating spaces such as a yoga or pilates class with a difference.
Connection opened Friday 23 June 2023 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and closed in March 2024.
