Merri-bek City Council

heavy body history: Merri-bek Collection and Recent Works

Curated by Maya Hodge, see works by Aunty Marlene Gilson, Mia Boe, Moorina Bonini, Sha Sarwari, Elyas Alavi, and Hoda Afshar.

Exhibitions

Event Details

Category

Exhibitions

Event Starts

Aug 9, 2025

Event Ends

Oct 26, 2025

Venue

Counihan Gallery

Location

233 Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056, Australia

Curated by Maya Hodge, a proud Lardil curator and writer, heavy body history: Merri-bek Collection and Recent Works highlights the power of art to disrupt colonial narratives, honour bloodlines, and inspire future generations. The exhibition draws connections between works from the Merri-bek Art Collection and recent pieces by invited artists, including Aunty Marlene Gilson, Mia Boe, Moorina Bonini, Sha Sarwari, Elyas Alavi, and Hoda Afshar.

Reflecting on experiences of resistance, injustice, and cultural storytelling in the face of colonialism, these artists also consider how these themes are entwined with truth and identity.

Join us for the opening on Saturday 9 August 2025, 2-5pm at the Counihan Gallery. Free entry. Complimentary drinks and snacks provided. 

Exhibition dates: Saturday 9 August 2025 to Sunday 26 October 2025

Image caption: Marlene Gilson. Marngrook Football, 2015, acrylic on canvas, 80 x 100 cm. Image courtesy of the artist. 

For more information click here