More than 700 people gathered for the opening of Coomaditchie: The Art of Place at Wollongong Art Gallery on Saturday, March 25.

Guest curated by Tess Allas with assistance from Alinta Maguire, Coomaditchie showcases newly commissioned works led by senior artists Aunty Lorraine Brown and Aunty Narelle Thomas. 

"The exhibition is a celebration of the establishment and impact of Coomaditchie United Aboriginal Corporation, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year," said John Monteleone, gallery program director. 

"Uncle Vic Chapman delivered the Welcome to Country to the 740 people who attended the opening. There was a great sense of community spirit and connection and a positive and celebratory atmosphere, which demonstrated the goodwill and support in the community for Coomaditchie.

"The opening also had a heart-warming performance by the WollCon Children’s Choir, which was an added highlight to the day."

The Coomaditchie works include the gallery’s outdoor panels, which tell the environmental stories of Coomaditchie Lagoon; three large canvas works that speak to the history of three decades of community engagement; ceramic hand-built platters by the two Aunties and fellow Coomaditchie-based artist, Allison Day, as well as the recent ‘love letters to Coomaditchie’ works from the broader Illawarra community in the form of ceramic plates.

"The project was made possible  through a Federal Government RISE grant," John said. 

"Coomaditchie: The Art of Place was officially opened by Stephen Jones MP, Member for Whitlam, Assistant Treasurer and Financial Services Minister."

The exhibition continues at WAG until 18 June 2023.

All photos thanks to Matt Houston of Ironbark Photography