Kokoberrin artist Jahzara Michl showcases her time on Country for UMI Arts’ Culture Through Our Eyes exhibition. Photo: Chisa Hasegawa.
In her fourth year exhibiting at UMI Arts in Cairns, a young Kokoberrin woman says art is helping her stay connected with her culture and appreciate the traditions passed on by Elders.
Jahzara Michl’s work was amongst 31 works by young First Nations artists unveiled at UMI Arts’ Culture Through Our Eyes exhibition on 9 May, which showcases the diverse cultures and stories from Cape York, the Torres Strait, Cairns and surrounding communities.
“I’m really grateful to have this opportunity, because normally, it’s really hard to find a platform to present your work and express yourself to the world,” Ms Michl said.
“I think it’s really encouraging to have a platform like this, because I’ve been able to try all sorts of different art techniques.”
In this year’s exhibition, Ms Michl presented a five-piece lino print set – a technique which she learned at an UMI Arts workshop – which depicts her recent time on Country.
“I think this series of work, particularly, reflects on tradition and connection to Country,” she said.
“It’s sort of a highlight in my life that I recently got to go on Country with family, and we learned some tradition then.
“I was with my great-grandfather, and he taught me how to find things on Country, like tucker, and he also welcomed us onto Country, which is a sacred tradition.”
UMI Arts’ exhibition and gallery officer Aleksandra Kostic D said it was hoped the exhibition would help young people connect with their history, while looking at their own paths.
“It’s important that they can connect past, present, and represent future of visual arts,” she said.
“All the artworks’ stories [talk] about the culture, tradition, feeling of belonging, identity, and what is most important in life of everyone.
“They are the strong voice of future, and how it looks, that path, where they will go representing their culture, traditions, Country, heritage and family stories through modern media and opening the door for a future in First Nations visual arts.”
Culture Through Our Eyes will be open to the public until 4 June at UMI Arts in Cairns.
