Dates: Friday, 24 May to Friday, 12 July 2024
Times: 9:30am – 2:30pm, Monday to Friday
Entry: FREE 
Venue: Hills Hub, Emerald 

Public programs: Cardinia Shire Council is holding two public Reconciliation Week events: 

• Monday, 27 May from 12:30pm to 1:15pm at Civic Centre, Officer 
• Tuesday, 28 May from 1:30pm to 2:15pm at Worrell Reserve, Emerald

Exhibition statement: 

Step into the vibrant tapestry of creativity with our First Nations art exhibition, a celebration of rich cultural heritage and contemporary expression. Anchored by a mesmerising display by artist Emmy Webbers, aka Wurruck Yambo, whose artwork serves as a visual symphony of tradition and innovation, the exhibition transcends individual narratives to weave a collective masterpiece. 

The creations truly are a dance between the echoes of ancestral wisdom and the pulse of modern existence, showcasing a profound connection to the land, spirituality, and community. Yet, this exhibition is not solely a spotlight on one artist; it is a communal canvas where every stroke tells a story. 

This exhibition runs from Reconciliation Week until the end of NAIDOC Week considering significant cultural dates and historical milestones. By coinciding with these pivotal moments, the exhibition not only showcases artistic excellence but also becomes a vessel for cultural reflection and commemoration. 

Embedded within this artistic landscape are collaborative pieces that resonate with the heartbeat of the community. Each artistic creation and piece is a shared language, echoing the collective spirit that binds generations. Together, these artists breathe life into a dynamic narrative that speaks to resilience, cultural pride, and the ever-evolving dialogue between tradition and contemporary expression. 

Artist biography: 

My name is Emmy Webbers (aka Wurruck Yambo). I was born and raised within the Kulin Nations of Victoria predominately on Bunurong and Wurundjeri Countries. I love going home to Gunai/Kurnai Country and connecting with both the land I live on and the land I come from.  

I am always interested in challenging myself as an artist. I like to try new things and see the end results. Every piece I create is inspired by my culture in some way, either from being on Country and the incredible visuals and feelings it creates, or through my children, seeing how they interact with our culture and finding ways I can explore through their eyes.  

I am lucky to have a strong community around me that has so many children and I always find the way they connect to Country and culture is what grows our communities. My art is very broad, covering canvas, murals, digital art, and hand-cut and painted wooden sculptures. I will never be able to fully put into words how it feels when my work is being enjoyed by others, but it is honestly one of the best feelings. Its pride, joy, humbling, and wonder all mixed together. 

To learn more about Emmy Webbers, visit their website here. 

Artwork credit: Emmy Webbers, Dancing Between the Echoes, Mural, 2024 (detail)