Mudlirna: carved objects and photos by Kaurna artist James Tylor

Tarnanthi is a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across the country to share important stories through artistic excellence, illuminating the diversity and depth of art and culture in communities nationwide. It encourages new beginnings by providing artists with opportunities to create significant new work and to extend their practice.

For Tarnanthi 2023, JamFactory presents five extraordinary exhibitions from artists and arts centres across Australia.

Multi-disciplinary Kaurna artist James Tylor presents Mudlirna, a solo exhibition showcasing carved Kaurna objects and photography. The exhibition celebrates the contemporary revival of historical Kaurna cultural art and design.The exhibition explores the contemporary revival of historical Kaurna cultural art and challenges the traditional representation of Indigenous belongings in museums.

JamFactory's media release explains: "After 1788 when Australia was colonised by the British early colonists wreaked havoc and massacred hundreds of Indigenous communities along with stealing carved objects such as weapons. These traditional objects were then put into museums and displayed as a warped memory of what was once here. The display of a ‘dead’ culture is extremely disrespectful to the living descendants of those communities today. Many indigenous communities have spent decades reviving the language and culture that was lost or asleep. The resurgence of culture keeps it alive and strong for the community. The way Indigenous cultures are reflected in colonial institution should reflect the truth.

"In Mudlirna, Tylor’s carved Kaurna objects reflect the living Kaurna culture that is alive today. The work in the exhibition signifies the revival of Kaurna cultural arts in a contemporary art context. These carved objects are made using traditional methods of harvesting wood and collecting natural resin and ochre, while also having a modern-day touch of power tools. Traditional objects such as clubs, shields and spear throwers will be shown."

For more information about the exhibitions showing at JamFactory Adelaide in Gallery Two until 3 December see https://www.jamfactory.com.au/