East Coast Encounter at the Arts Centre Gold Coast

By Benjamen Judd

This weekend, Arts Centre Gold Coast opens their latest exhibition East Coast Encounter, which will run from April 25 until June 7.

Australia’s history is a story that has two sides – that of the British arrivals and those who were here first.

East Coast Encounter explores this experience of first contact from the time of Cook’s mapping of the east coast of Australia, and how these encounters still resonate with Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, writers and songwriters today.

Captain Cook’s 1770 voyage from England has become a central theme in narratives of Australian history identity. It’s a narrative touches all Australians, but not necessarily in the same way.

This exhibition seeks to promote cultural dialogue and reconciliatory understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Artists include: Bianca Beetson, Michael Cook, Euan Macleod, Arone Meeks, Reg Mombassa and Judy Watson.

As Australia continues to debate it’s place in the context of historical identity and future nation, this insightful dialogue on the original boat people could not have come at a better time.

East Coast Encounter will show at the Arts Centre Gold Coast from April 25 until June 7.