Artwork image: Uncle Greg Muir, Going On Tour, Acrylic on canvas, 51 cm x 41 cm
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that the following content contains information about a recently passed Elder.
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the recent passing of the very talented and well-loved Uncle Gregory Roy Muir. Uncle Greg passed into the dreaming* whilst working towards this special NAIDOC exhibition, and with the blessing of the Muir family, Kingston Arts are honoured to present this exhibition, honouring his legacy as an artist and performer. It was amongst Uncle Greg's last wishes to ensure the ‘show must go on’, and in fond memory of his spirit, we present this exhibition, including one new work that has not been shared publicly until now.
We invite you to engage with Uncle Greg’s story as you move through this exhibition, from early memories of growing up in institutions, to reconnecting with family and becoming a strong and powerful member of his local community.
* ‘Dreaming’ is a term used amongst many Aboriginal communities that refers to the ‘spirit world’ that accompanies the physical one. It is believed that Creator spirits and Ancestors reside there and once someone passes away, they join them in the Dreaming.
Vale Uncle Greg Muir 7.10.1953-14.6.2024
Exhibition Statement
Through landscapes and portrait paintings, Yorta Yorta artist Uncle Greg Muir takes viewers on a journey of his story and lived experiences as an Aboriginal man with a disability.
For over five decades, Uncle Greg Muir drew inspiration from home, people and places. This retrospective brings together a collection of paintings of familiar landscapes and portraits of his family and friends.
“My identity is a big influence on my paintings. I am inspired by the art of my ancestors and I am inspired by other artists with disability, and I want to express this through my work. It is very important to showcase this through my paintings. When someone sees my paintings, I want to teach them about my people, my history and my identity” Uncle Greg Muir.
About the Artist
Uncle Greg Muir (Yorta Yorta) is a visual and performance artist and has been painting for over 50 years. His work is held in private and public collections across Australia. Having cerebral palsy and being institutionalised as a baby up until the age of 16 are experiences that shape his story and are shared through his art.
NAIDOC EXHIBITIONS OPENING
Kingston Arts welcome you to join us as we celebrate three exhibitions presented in recognition of NAIDOC Week on Saturday 6 July, 1pm – 3pm at the Kingston Arts Centre, 979 – 985 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin. A Welcome to Country will be delivered by the Bunurong Land Council.
Kingston Arts are proud to support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to exhibit in the galleries. We strive to champion local talents across the year, and recognise NAIDOC Week as a time where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, performance, music and cultures can be celebrated and enjoyed amongst all communities. By sharing cultures in this way, we hope to provide information and raise awareness of the rich and significant cultures of the First Peoples of Australia.
ABOUT NAIDOC WEEK
National NAIDOC Week (7 July to 14 July 2024) celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s an opportunity for everyone to learn about First Nations cultures, histories and participate in celebrations.
ACCESS