Minjerribah Stories 1

Salt Water Murris Quandamooka

4 December 2005 - 29 January 2006
Redland Art Gallery, Cleveland, Gallery 5

The Indigenous people of North Stradbroke Island and the Quandamooka region have a history of living on the island dating back many thousands of years. As the story tellers of today these artists have come together to form the Salt Water Murris – Quandamooka Art Group. Almost all the artists are direct descendants of the original Nunukul tribe and Nughie tribe of this region. Individual and collective memories and stories are told through this exhibition.

Minjerriba is the Indigenous name for Stradbroke Island. There are many stories, stories from the distant past before white settlement to when the first visitors from other shores arrived to herald the beginning of the end of life as they had known it for thousands of years, and stories from the time of dispossession up to the present day. The Indigenous people of Minjerriba like other Indigenous communities are deeply connected to their land and hold a great respect for their people who have gone before them. There is a great feeling for family and community. Each artist has reached into themselves to share parts of their lives and history they have chosen to express at this particular time.

The Salt Water Murris are working with TAFE and the Principal of the Primary and Secondary Schools at Dunwich to promote and establish a permanent art gallery workshop and learning centre.

Salt Water Murris –
Quandamooka Art Group
Mission Statement

ART for CULTURE; ART for LIFE; ART for SPIRIT; ART for COUNTRY

Salt Water Murris members will endeavour to:

  • establish a self-sustainable Indigenous artists group
  • operate art group business in an open and transparent manner
  • respect, honour and uphold law and tradition
  • work with the utmost cultural and artistic integrity as the storytellers of today
  • create art works from original ideas using the best possible materials and industry practices
  • work for the good of the greater community
  • support the community where possible and when appropriate
  • strive to set a good example for the young people and others in the community
  • support and encourage young people toward better education and cultural understanding
  • encourage members of the group to greater education in art and Indigenous culture
  • create a safe and supportive work and meeting environment, where all members of the Indigenous community and others can visit and participate
  • share knowledge and skills with other Indigenous community members where appropriate
  • use art as a bridge for communication in local and wider communities.

 

Image: Belinda Close, Mullet Series #1 2005. Courtesy of the artist.