Exhibitions

On Island

Opens 06-12-2024,  closes 21-09-2025

Richard Wastell, World that I love (Inhaler), Autumn camp, Penstock Lagoon (detail) 2004, acrylic and oil on canvas. Purchased with funds from the Ruth Komon Bequest, 2004. AG7668.

On Flinders Island in northeast Tasmania, 'on island' means that you are literally on the island. Its opposite, off island, suggests that you could be anywhere else—whether Launceston or New York, the distance is irrelevant. These expressions are part of everyday conversations about the movement of the small community and reflect the centrality of the island.

We have borrowed the phrase 'on island' for the title of this exhibition which explores connections between artists and the archipelago of 334 islands that make up Lutruwita/Tasmania. It evokes the artists’ physical presence here, as well diverse narratives and perspectives about this place. Some of the artists live here, while others have either visited or moved elsewhere. All artworks are from the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery collection.

Lutruwita/Tasmania is a complex cultural and physical site—a fact reflected in the differing themes throughout the exhibition. These include the trauma and devastation of invasion, the tension between industrial development and the natural environment, and the existential threat of climate change. Artists draw from a strong sense of place, personal experience, or engage critically with global art and design movements. While many of the artworks refer to events and places specific to Lutruwita/Tasmania, all are informed by a global conversation while representing the significant cultural activity that is unique to this island.

Upcoming On Island Artist Talks

• Saturday, 15 March – Patrick Hall and Michael Schlitz

Talks commence at 11:00 am.
Please join us at the meeting point in Central Gallery.
No bookings required – this is a free event.