The UQ Ipswich campus will affirm its commitment to the local community and the arts when it officially launches its sponsorship and naming rights of The University of Queensland Gallery on July 8.
The gallery, which forms part of the Ipswich Art Gallery, also unveils its inaugural exhibition, a unique photographic tribute to Indigenous artists.
UQ Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor (Academic) Alan Rix said the University’s sponsorship demonstrated its support of Ipswich and the cultural agenda of the city.
“Art is a powerful barometer of what’s happening in society and Ipswich is home to a thriving artistic community,” Professor Rix said.
“I’m delighted the University will be able to reach out to the people of Ipswich in new ways through this gallery.”
The University of Queensland Gallery’s first exhibition, Indigenous Artists of Australia: A photographic exhibition by Silvana van Dijk showcases the global success, scale and impact of Indigenous art through film and photography.
The exhibition, which is touring through Queensland Arts Council, features Indigenous singers, dancers and other artists performing on beaches, in deserts and on stage.
“Silvana van Dijk’s work is a moving and fascinating exploration of modern indigenous art,” Professor Rix said.
“UQ has demonstrated its commitment to Indigenous art in the past through exhibitions such as last year’s Our Way: Contemporary Indigenous Art from Lockhart River showcase at the UQ Art Museum at St Lucia campus, so this is a fitting debut exhibition for The University of Queensland Gallery.”
Ipswich mayor Paul Pisasale welcomed the new partnership.
“The gallery is the window of our cultural heart and soul and the University is now a vital part of our city’s culture and education,” Cr Pisasale said.
“Part of the exhibition in the new University of Queensland Gallery includes a film documenting the journey of Indigenous art groups Culturebank and Nunukul-Yuggera and culminating in a performance at the Cultural Olympiad.”
Coinciding with The University of Queensland Gallery’s launch and NAIDOC week, Ipswich Indigenous artist Charmaine Davis will present recent artworks in the Local Artist Gallery within the Ipswich Art Gallery.
Indigenous Artists of Australia: A photographic exhibition runs at The Ipswich Art Gallery until Sunday August 31.
Media: Loretta Porche (07 3381 1068, l.porche@uq.edu.au)
