A group of 29 Illawarra artists will donate their artwork for sale Art from our Hearts to support the Yes 23campaign for the 2023 Referendum to ensure an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution.
Initiated by Wombarra residents Prue Watson and Vyv Wilson, and Clifton School of Arts Committee member Roger West, the fundraiser demonstrates Illawarra artists’ strong desire to do what they can in order for the Yes vote to prevail.
The Clifton School of Arts has come out publicly in support of the Yes vote and is hosting this event without charge for the venue and not taking the normal commissions on sales.
CSA president David Roach said the referendum presents a unique opportunity towards reconciliation and equality.
“As with so many social issues, whether it’s climate or refugees, artists are stepping up and demonstrating commitment to causes bigger than themselves,” David said. “The CSA is a hub for respectful discussion and active listening to debate, as well as creativity, so it feels right to host this unique, historic show.”
Prue Watson is delighted at the response from so many passionate artists. “It’s particularly generous of artists to be donating their work so soon after the Covid pandemic when it was impossible for them to exhibit and sell their work. I’ve found it an extremely gratifying experience to receive such positive responses from this creative community”.
Works for sale will include paintings, drawings, photographs and from distinguished local artists including Anne Ferran, David Roach, Anne Zahalka, Michele Elliot and Paul Ryan.
Wombarra painter Vyvian Wilson said: “The Indigenous Voice to Parliament is a way for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to guide the Government about laws and policies that affect them. It’s long overdue and I don’t want to imagine what we would all feel like as a nation if the referendum fails.”
Potter Susan Bromham said: “I’m very glad to be involved in a small way.”
Textile artist Michele Elliot added: “I support Voice Treaty Truth for First Nations people. It’s time to listen to 65,000 years of continuous culture and custodianship.”
Like many artists, printmaker Liz Jeneid supports a number of causes, so this gesture feels like a natural extension of her values.
All proceeds from the sales will go to Yes 23, a campaign led by Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition Ltd. Yes 23 does not receive any public funding.
Information provided by Yes 23 about the referendum will be available for visitors and respectful questions and discussion are welcome.
Art from our Hearts
Opening at 6pm Friday, 11 August at Clifton School of Arts and will run from 10am-4pm Saturday & Sunday 12 & 13 August.
For more details, contact Prue Watson: artscliftonnsw@gmail.com
