Week #10 - Over The Fence

Over the fence: Contemporary Indigenous photography from the Corrigan Collection

Taking its title from an artwork by Destiny Deacon, Over the fence features the work of 18 Indigenous artists engaged in the field of photography. Indigenous art is often political, and these artists address various contentious issues, including identity, representation, racism, religious influence and the exploitation of land. The artworks in Over the fence are drawn from the private collection of art patron and philanthropist Patrick Corrigan AM, a long-time supporter of contemporary Australian art.

Over the Fence, Destiny Deacon, 2000.

Nookanta Rushes, Lake Bonney, Nici Cumpston, 2008.

Scratch an Aussie #1, Richard Bell, 2008.

Right: Invaded Dreams, Christian Bumbarra Thompson, 2012.

Left: Untitled (Yellow Kangaroo Paw), Christian Bumbarra Thompson, 2007.

Majority Rule (Memorial), Michael Cook, 2014. 

---------Follow Up Questions---------

What were the strategies used by the curator of this exhibition Gordon Craig in installing this exhibition? Does the fact that this work is from the collection of Pat Corrigan influence the way we perceive the work in the exhibition? 

Patrick Corrigan approached UQ to collaborate on an exhibition together. Gordon Craig was given access to Corrigan's collection and was able to choose any of the works. The main problem with the exhibition was in choosing the works. The UQ Art Museum has a very limited amount of space, so Craig had to be very selective with the works he chose. These works may be from a personal collection, but the works are an important part of Australian art history. The fact that the work comes from a personal collection does not impact on the viewing of the exhibition.

Are there perceptible themes in this exhibition?

This exhibition explores issues between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians; issues of disconnection and alienation; issues that are still yet to be solved. It highlights the racial tensions that still linger throughout Australia. 

In what ways has photography been a democratic tool to tell of Indigenous experience?

Photography gives the illusion of truth, by using this medium, the artists are able to manipulate the truth. It brings to light Aboriginal issues that have been previously hidden away and exposes the truth. Because of this reality element, photography has become an extremely effective tool for portraying Indigenous issues.