Cross Currents

2 July - 7 August 2005

Treahna HAMM

Cross Currents is a description which denotes many aspects of my work. Born in Melbourne, I was taken from my mother and grew up with a loving and encouraging family in Yarrawonga, along the banks of the Murray River, nearby to my ancestral homelands of the Yorta Yorta people (Echuca/Barmah).

Studying art gave me the opportunity to interpret prevailing questions raised from both cultures, many of which remain unanswered due to the ramifications of government policies.

The artists represented in this exhibition bring similar messages. In hindsight of the history of the land, we bring forth "our" culture that has survived time and is distinctly unique from the other regions of Australia.

My art gives me the freedom to recognise, revitalise and reinterpret much of the strong and vibrant Victorian Indigenous culture, while at the same time expressing concepts through contemporary mediums. It is imperative that this be done for future generations as well as giving respect to our old people and ancestors.

The four works in the exhibition relate to my connection with the Murray River and its surroundings. The imagery relates directly to the influence of my cultural identity and the urgency I have in creating meaningful, symbolic objects for all people.

 

 

 


image: Treahna Hamm