The Queensland State Archives exhibition, Skeletons, by Waanyi artist Judy Watson, will open in Gurambilbarra/Townsville this September.
The exhibition, part of Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts' collaboration with the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA), is curated by Wakka Wakka/Kalkadoon woman, Amanda Hayman of Blaklash Creative.
Skeletons explores Australia's hidden histories, colonial conflicts, and ongoing Aboriginal resistance.
Mrs Watson's work reveals overlooked evidence from state archives, challenging the notion of terra nullius and offering a new national perspective to support understanding, education, and healing.
Her Queensland State Archives commissioned piece, Shadow Bone, was highlighted in a New York Times article on 9 December 2022.
Mrs Watson drew inspiration from her great-great-grandmother Rosie, who survived a massacre in Boodjamulla by hiding underwater with stones and breathing through reeds, symbolising resilience and their ongoing presence.
"Both in my work and life, I am inspired by my great-great-grandmother Rosie, who survived a massacre in the Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) are of North West Queensland," she said.
"She concealed herself by putting stones on her body to weigh herself down underwater, where she breathed through straw-like reeds. Because she survived, we are here."
This impactful work highlights Watson's lasting influence and dedication to truth-telling.
The Skeletons exhibition represents a homecoming for Watson, a founding member and long-time collaborator of Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts.
She will also create a new video commission for the NAFA and Umbrella exhibition, centred on North West Queensland histories.
Alongside Mrs Watson's exhibition, Yunbenun/Magnetic Island artist Rhonda Stevens presents Regardé Aqua.
Her sculptural installation represents an elevated spring, highlighting water's essential role in the universe.
Mrs Watson and Mrs Stevens have both recently showcased their work in Umbrella's touring program with Museums and Galleries Queensland.
Her work was featured in Legacy: Reflections on Mabo, which toured nationally from 2019 to 2023.
Mrs Stevens' work is currently touring Australia as part of the group exhibition, POSTWORLD.
North Queensland audiences are invited to celebrate the launch of Mrs Watson's Skeletons and Mrs Stevens' Regardé Aqua at 6pm on Friday, 13 September.
The exhibitions will be on display until 27 October 2024.
Public programs will provide deeper insights into the artists' creative processes and visions.
