Redland Art Gallery (RAG) is set to captivate audiences with two dynamic exhibitions this month – Performing Presence and Dice Topologies.
Showcasing a powerful mix of contemporary artists, the exhibitions explore themes of identity, storytelling and the ever-evolving relationship between art and digital culture.
The first exhibition, Performing Presence, highlights a curated selection of works from the diverse and extensive Redland Art Gallery Collection.
The Collection currently has more than 800 pieces. Through a variety of mediums, it offers unique personal perspectives that underpin and build on the identity of Redland City.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said Performing Presence offered an engaging look at the significance of the RAG Collection which is designed to be shared with the community at every opportunity.
“This exhibition brings to life a number of important contemporary works, offering fresh perspectives on how we understand, interpret, and share our collection,” the Mayor said.
Opening on Sunday 9 February 2025 at RAG, Cleveland, Performing Presence includes striking works from artists such as Tony Albert, Natalya Hughes, Michael Cook, Gerwyn Davies and William Yang.
Through photography, painting and collage, the artists explore how identity is shaped by personal experiences, history and popular culture.
From intimate portraits to bold statements of self-representation, it is an exhibition that highlights the depth and diversity of Australian contemporary art.
Among the featured works is Monica Rohan’s Head up, shoulders back, which visually captures the inner conflict between confidence and self-consciousness.
Keemon Williams’ Acclimation offers another compelling perspective, using photographic portraiture to challenge colonial narratives and reclaim cultural heritage through a contemporary lens.
Running alongside Performing Presence, Dice Topologies takes a fresh approach to artistic storytelling by drawing inspiration from gaming culture, mythology and digital experiences.
Featuring works by Nicholas Aloisio-Shearer, Charlie Donaldson, Spencer Harvie, Michelle Le Plastrier and Tara Pattenden, this exhibition blurs the lines between reality and virtual worlds.
The exhibition invites audiences to reflect on how gaming influences contemporary art, as well as how chance and choice impact the narratives we create – both in games and in life.
From Spencer Harvie’s intricate graphite and ink works, to Michelle Le Plastrier’s interactive digital installations, Dice Topologies offers a multi-layered experience for visitors.
Both exhibitions will run until Tuesday 25 March 2025. The official opening event will be held on Friday 7 February from 6pm to 8pm, and visitors can attend artist talks throughout the exhibition period.
For more details, visit Redland Art Gallery’s website.
