Being Tiwi features a collection of paintings and prints by nine artists – Timothy Cook, Raelene Kerinauia, Maria Josette Orsto, Eddie Puruntatameri (1948–1995), Nina Puruntatameri, Cornelia Tipuamantumirri, Bede Tungutalum, Giovanni Tipungwuti (1953–1993) and Pedro Wonaeamirri – from Australia’s Tiwi Islands, located 100km north of Darwin.

The exhibition reveals how the expressive and experimental work being produced on the Tiwi Islands  – made up of Bathurst and Melville Islands – continues to realise, in different forms, the traditions of life and culture. 

Being Tiwi is currently on a two-year national tour, being shown in a number of art galleries around the country. Moree Plains Gallery was lucky enough to secure the exhibition, which is particularly significant given the local connection with co-curator Keith Munro.

This is the first show Mr Munro has curated that has visited his hometown.

“It’s a validation that you can achieve and you can follow your dreams; being in my own gallery makes it more special,” Mr Munro said. “It’s great to be home and catch up with school friends and to be exhibiting a major show that’s touring nationally in my hometown is really special for me.”

This is the very first MCA touring show to visit Moree Plains Gallery, which director Vivien Clyne said is very exciting, particularly with the local connection.

“The calibre of works is excellent; everyone will be wowed when they walk through the doors,” she said.

“The beauty of a travelling show is that ut cines with educational material which helps people to engage a little further with the display; it delves into the stories and artworks a bit more.”

Everyone is invited to the opening of Being Tiwi at Moree Plains Gallery on Friday, February 17 from 6pm to 8pm. RSVP to moreeplainsgallery@bigpond.com or call 6757 3320. 

Being Tiwi will be on display in Moree until March 26.