Internationally acclaimed artist David Hinchliffe will host a community art event at the University of Southern Queensland’s Gumbi Gumbi Gardens on Sunday (October 9).
David Hinchliffe, along with a group of established and emerging artists, will capture the beauty and significance of the grounds, which were designed in close partnership with First Nations Elders.
With University of Southern Queensland Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie, and Elder-in-Residence Uncle Wayne Fossey participating, the event aims to shine a light on local creatives as well as the cultural importance of the Gumbi Gumbi Gardens.
“Last year, we held this event in the Japanese Garden, culminating in an art exhibition at the University’s new gallery,” Professor Mackenzie said.
“This year, we will be based at the Gumbi Gumbi Gardens, one of my favourite spots at the University.
“We have chosen artists from various genres, including wire sculpture, pen and ink, watercolour, oil and acrylic painting. Invited local artists include member for Groom Garth Hamilton, the winner of the 2022 Southern Queensland Landscapes First Nations Art Competition winner Melinda Luscombe, and several local high school students.
“Through these different mediums, we hope to showcase the diversity of talent and interpretation of this very special place.”
The Gumbi Gumbi Gardens features more than 100 plant species and displays an extensive array of Indigenous flora used by the local Aboriginal communities for various purposes, including food and medicine.
The symbol of these Gardens – the gumbi gumbi (Pittosporum angustifolium) – represents knowledge, growth and healing.
Members of the public are welcome to watch the artists at work in the Gumbi Gumbi Gardens on Sunday from 9am-3pm.
