artefact

artefact is Performance Arts Culture Cessnock’s inaugural exhibition.

The collection celebrates the indelible artistic legacy of the late Uncle Les Elvin, and brings together the work of four renowned artists, each with their own deep ties to the Wonnarua Nation and surrounding Country.

^{Image at top: Uncle Les Elvin, Kukundia - Murra (Brings Water) 2014, Acrylic on canvas, 1205mm x 800mm}

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Opening Night // Friday, 13 October 2023 at 5pm

Mingle with the artists, and enjoy some delectable canapés with a glass of bubbles. This is a free event however bookings are essential.

This very special exhibition will opened by Wonnarua Elders Council Elder, Uncle Richard Edwards. 

RSVP HERE 

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Exhibition Times

artefact will run from Tuesday, 17 October until Sunday, 3 December 2023.

Tuesday to Friday // 9am - 4.30pm
Saturday and Sunday // 10am - 2.30pm

^{Curated by Vicki Sienczuk, Jenna Blayden, and Joseph Turrin.}

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Artists

Uncle Les Elvin

Les Elvin (1938 - 2015), also known as 'Uncle' Les, was a highly respected Wonnarua Elder, artist, entrepreneur, and educator. He was born in Kearsley and dedicated most of his life to serving the community of Cessnock. Uncle Les achieved great success and recognition as an artist, with works represented in public and private collections both nationally and internationally. 

Uncle Les’s greatest achievements were in the use of his knowledge and skill in art to teach, empower and improve the lives of Aboriginal people in his community. He created understanding between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities and fostered collaboration, partnerships and friendships across cultural divides.

Uncle Les gave himself tirelessly to culture, community and education, promoting reconciliation, bringing people together and helping the community better understand the importance of Australia’s Aboriginal Heritage.

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Lesley Salem

Lesley Salem’s art follows in the footsteps of her father, Uncle Les Elvin. Most of her knowledge for her art is drawn from her dad’s wisdom, however she employs it in a more contemporary manner. Lesley predominantly uses acrylic on canvas, wood, and occasionally glass.

Despite her contemporary dotting style, she skillfully incorporates traditional Aboriginal Symbolism wherever possible to convey stories in her work, with a primary focus on storytelling.

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Saretta Fielding

Saretta Fielding is an award-winning Aboriginal artist of the Wonnarua Nation located in the Hunter Valley NSW. Her artwork versatility is seen across a wide range of public artworks and mediums including fine art, public installations, and fashion.

Saretta’s unique art style - combining traditional symbolism and storytelling alongside contemporary artform - and colour palette is fast becoming recognised nationally and internationally.

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Ryan Andrew Lee

Ryan Andrew Lee is a Sydney-based cinematographer and artist working with documentary and experimental eco-cinema.

Lee’s conceptual new media practice explores alternative ontologies and epistemologies which are strongly informed by First Nations people and community.

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When

Location

Cessnock