More than 40 Quandamooka artworks from the Redland Art Gallery Collection – some of which have never been publicly exhibited – are on loan for the inaugural exhibition at QUAMPI Arts and Culture Centre on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).
The exhibition, Ngaliya Ngajau Wagari (Ours to Carry), will be open to the public from 13 September 2025 to 2 August 2026.
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said the loan reflected a strong ongoing partnership between Redland City Council and the Quandamooka community.
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“This loan exemplifies Council’s commitment to cultural sustainability, community engagement and reconciliation,” the Mayor said.
“It also aligns with Council’s strategic goals to foster cultural partnerships and promote First Nations art and storytelling.
“The exhibition Ngaliya Ngajau Wagari (Ours to Carry) is not only a celebration of art but a testament to the strength of these cultural partnerships and the importance of honouring Country through creative expression.”
The Mayor said Council was providing the artworks from its collection to support the launch of QUAMPI and to honour the cultural heritage of the Quandamooka People.
“This is a collaborative relationship that includes shared curatorial responsibilities, logistical coordination and mutual support for cultural programming going forward,” the Mayor said.
“The exhibition is curated by Avril Quaill, Director QUAMPI with expert support through Council’s galleries manager, collection curatorial officer and gallery support officer.
“It includes works from the Redland Art Gallery Collection, which spans various mediums including painting, textiles, ceramics and glass, and includes works by nationally-recognised artists such as Megan Cope, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins and Kyra Mancktelow.”
The loan from the Redland Art Gallery Collection includes works and artists of cultural and historical significance, including:
- Untitled (Pig Face) by Oodgeroo Noonuccal – a rare 1981 painting by one of Australia’s most iconic Aboriginal poets and activists.
- A collection of textiles by Oodgeroo Noonuccal, Robert Perkins, and Ivana Perkins – screenprints from 1980 that document Quandamooka stories and motifs.
- Kabul (Carpet snake) and native passionfruit dreaming by Joshua Walker – a vibrant work reflecting deep cultural narratives.
- Born Under a Tree by Kyra Mancktelow – a striking work combining ceramic, woven natural fibres, emu feathers, bronze cast, and tarlatan to explore identity and connection to Country.
QUAMPI Director Avril Quaill said the inaugural exhibition or works would provide a wonderful showcase for Quandamooka arts and culture.
“We’re excited that QUAMPI will allow the community to recognise and appreciate the rich arts and culture of the Quandamooka people,” she said.
“After many years in the making, QUAMPI will come alive, attracting visitors from across Australia and the world to Minjerribah.”
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the Redland Art Gallery Collection included a growing number of contemporary artworks by First Nations artists, with a strong representation of more than 100 works by Quandamooka artists.
“While Redland Art Gallery makes every effort to showcase First Nations artworks through exhibitions, foyer displays and public programs, a significant portion of Quandamooka artworks in Council’s collection have either never been publicly exhibited or have only been shown occasionally and individually.
“This upcoming exhibition at QUAMPI represents the first time this selection of works will be displayed together as a collective, offering a rare and culturally powerful opportunity to experience the breadth and depth of Quandamooka artistic practice On Country and in community.”
Redland Art Gallery is committed to collecting and exhibiting works by First Nations artists, collaborating with organisations such as The Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders in Council Aboriginal Corporation, Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation and QUAMPI, and supporting emerging artists through residencies and public programs.
