Ready to go – CIAF 2016
29/06/2016Well we’re just about ready to head north for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair! This time Umbrella Studio will be exhibiting some new linocut prints by Tommy Pau, monoprint drawings by Gail Mabo, and Alag masks by Obery Sambo and others.
Tommy’s new prints are from a series called “Ad Wer: Story of the Stars from the Eastern Torres Strait” which have just premiered at James Cook University. Three prints have already been snapped up by the university’s art collection, and it is little wonder: The prints are technically superb and document the constellations that the Torres Strait Islanders have used for thousands of years to navigate, to tell the coming of seasons, and other cultural activities. This body of work is also available for tour to galleries and museums, so please contact us for a tour info pack.
Gail Mabo has produced a new set of monoprint drawings in colours that represent her country. In her painterly drawings, she shares her culture with the audience depicting the land in different times of the year, and historical events.
Obery Sambo has led a group of indigenous artists in making masks from coconut fibre, plant materials, and paints. Participants have used both contemporary and traditional elements in their designs which are as unique as each artist.
Umbrella will also have a small selection of other works on paper available to browse, so please look for us if you are coming to the fair! (Of course you are!). This year CIAF also has an official app, so download that before you go so you know what’s on and where. Umbrella’s participation at CIAF is supported by the Queensland Government’s backing indigenous arts initiative.
Alan Marlowe
