A powerful new exhibition featuring four emerging artists who share their deep connections to country is now open at Bank Art Museum Moree following its launch last month.
Lines of Land, Patterns of Self marks the debut of talented artists Janice ‘Genus’ Giffin, David ‘Crockett’ Craigie, Glenda Nicholls and George See – all who have studied at TAFE NSW Moree over the past two decades.
The free exhibition will run until September 13 and showcases works across painting, mixed media, and carving.
Curated by TAFE NSW Visual Arts teacher and mentor Elizabeth Von Gavel, the exhibition offers a window into each artist’s journey, blending diverse art practices and heartfelt storytelling.
“This show brings together four incredibly talented artists, each with a unique journey and distinct style,” Ms Von Gavel said.
“What ties them together are the lines they’ve followed, through Country, through memory, through identity.
“Those lines have formed the patterns of self that you’ll see reflected in their work,” she said.
Director of Culture, Art and Design at TAFE NSW, Richard Cass, said TAFE NSW is proud to promote and celebrate First Nation artists.
“We are committed to fostering the growth of the arts, culture and creative industries across the state in line with the NSW Government’s Creative Communities policy,” Mr Cass said.
“We actively support the exhibition of student and artist work on our campuses, in local TAFE galleries, and in regional community galleries to prioritise First Nations’ culture and stories.”
According to the National Association of Visual Arts, there are critical workforce and skills shortages impacting the arts sector, including First Nations arts, visual arts, craft and design, with acute shortages in regional areas.
TAFE NSW Moree is helping to bridge the gap by equipping students with the skills needed to pursue creative and meaningful careers in the arts industry.
Through the Certificate III in Visual Arts and Certificate III and IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts, students gain practical art-making skills across, as well as cultural storytelling, curatorial skills, and exhibition experience.
“These courses give students of all skill levels a supportive, inclusive space to connect with community, grow their creative talents, and pursue careers in galleries, public art, education, or cultural development,” Ms Von Gavel said.
“Supporting and showcasing our local artists isn’t just about admiring beautiful works, it’s about recognising the heart and soul of our region.
“Art strengthens community, brings people together, sparks conversation and reminds us of who we are,” she said.
“When people visit, I’d encourage them to ask questions and learn from the knowledge passed down to them. I promise, you’ll walk away changed, just like I have.”
TAFE NSW Moree student Glenda Nicholls is studying the Certificate III in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts and is excited to share ancestral stories of the Pilliga and river Country through her artwork.
“When people view my works, they will learn about the stories that have been passed down to me from my family,” Ms Nicholls said.
“The artwork called Women’s Business is my favourite. It represents the important role of the woman, keeping the family together.
“The hearts represent love, oneness and nurturing. The woman stands next to the shelter, protective over her women’s business. The family is represented by the orange campsite where the mob comes to meet.
“Through TAFE NSW Moree I’ve learnt many skills including learning about colours, printmaking and new skills like creating fibre sculpture.
“It’s exciting to have my artworks on display to the public and that local artists are being valued and recognised for their achievements,” she said.
Lines of Land, Patterns of Self is open at BAMM Gallery until September 13, 2025, with free entry to the public.
