Colleen Raven Strangways art preview: Charting new cultural pathways
Taking the perspective of First Nations people as its launchpad, Strangways’ latest exhibition is not to be missed
Powerful and captivating, Colleen Raven Strangways’ photography is celebrated in exhibitions across two venues this year. A proud Arabana, Mudbura, Gurindji and Warlpiri woman, Strangways combats stereotypes with strength and poignance, portraying her community with dignity.
At Adelaide Town Hall, Wathlu Anthunda (My World) combines Strangways’ recent commissions with community-led pieces, shifting focus from ownership to perspective and belonging. ‘It’s about the world I am part of,’ Strangways says. ‘My Country and my place: the world as I know it.’ Artworks from the show, made in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), depict prominent community leaders, Strangways’ family members and First Nations musicians through portraits of strength, resilience and pride.
Strangways also presents a complementary exhibition at Art Pod, titled UV Songlines: Illuminating Ancestral Roots. The striking visuals of her UV-reactive portraits commemorate her respect for Elders and the wealth of stories they share, in her role of ‘caring for culture through my lens’. Visually stunning and culturally engaging, Strangways’ works are not to be missed.
Wathlu Anthunda (My World), Adelaide Town Hall, 12 February–14 July; UV Songlines: Illuminating Ancestral Roots, Art Pod, 13 February–22 March; picture: Courtesy of the artist.