Artwork by Talisia Bourne.

Mudjar Aboriginal Corporation is bringing a kwobidok (beautiful) exhibition to the Cannery Arts Centre, Echoes of the South Coast, showcasing the work of two moorditj (excellent) First Nations artists, Atheleen Thomas and Talisia Bourne. Bold, contemporary and deeply connected to culture, their artworks celebrate community, storytelling and Country through two distinctive creative practices.

Atheleen Thomas, a local Nyungar woman of the Kepa Kurl nation, creates artworks inspired by her connection to Country, family and culture. Through bold colours, intricate patterns and storytelling, her work reflects both tradition and contemporary Aboriginal life, celebrating identity and the enduring connection between people and place.

Talisia Bourne is a local Aboriginal and Torres strait Island emerging artist and designer whose creative practice extends beyond the canvas. Alongside her original artworks, Talisia has developed a strong reputation for designing Aboriginal-themed sporting jerseys for local clubs and organisations. Her designs combine cultural elements with modern sporting identity, allowing teams to proudly wear artwork that celebrates Aboriginal culture and community. Her work demonstrates the versatility of Indigenous art and its ability to connect people across sport, community and culture.

This exhibition offers an opportunity to experience contemporary Aboriginal art that honours culture, celebrates creativity and shares First Nations perspectives of Kepa Kurl Esperance.

Exhibition Opening Thursday 30 July, 5:30 - 7:30PM Cannery Arts Centre, Art Room Gallery

Exhibition Dates Friday 31 July - Saturday 22nd August Gallery Open Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm & Sat 12 - 4pm

Public Programs

Mudjar Open Studio
Every Wed 12-2pm from 5 to 19 August.
Artists Atheleen Thomas and Talisia Bourne will be working from the Art Room Gallery each Wednesday. Drop in, say Kaya, watch the creative process unfold, ask questions, and gain an insight into the stories, techniques and inspiration behind their work.

Canvas to Sporting Jerseys – Contemporary First Nations Art in Kepa Kurl
Tues 4 Aug at 6pm to 7.15pm
Join First Nations artists Atheleen Thomas and Talisia Bourne for a conversation about their creative practice, exploring the opportunities, complexities and responsibilities of creating contemporary Aboriginal art today.

mudjar Aboriginal Corporation

Mudjar Aboriginal Corporation is committed to supporting Aboriginal artists to build sustainable creative careers. Through the Esperance Aboriginal Art Gallery, artists have a dedicated space to exhibit and sell their work, creating opportunities to earn an income while sharing their stories with the wider community. This support is made possible through funding from the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS) program.

You can visit Mudjar Gallery all year round at 4 Woods St, Esperance
9am to 3pm Tues to Thurs.