In 2024 the second Indian Ocean Craft Triennial investigates the multi-various languages codified in contemporary craft from countries around the Indian Ocean. Major international exhibitions will adorn six galleries, a major multi-day conference, and over 70 more exhibitions and events across Western Australia. Two such exhibitions are on display at the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery.
In an Australian-first exhibition, view the bold and emblazoned with character, ceramic works of Madoda Fani. Inspired by his African heritage, Fani makes hand-coiled, burnished and smoke-fired pieces that are a contemporary evolution of the traditional ceramics indigenous to Southern Africa. Although he uses traditional techniques, Fani's curvaceous, coiled forms and hand-carved embellishments are entirely distinct. He works on a large scale, building organic-shaped vessels whose smooth surfaces are punctuated by intricate, repetitive patterns that give them a scaled, insect-like appearance.
The Upholstered Donkey features woven tapestries interlaced with found objects, this installation draws inspiration from two miniature donkeys, Joe and Frank.
Jillian Green's art practice has become entwined with her relationship with two young donkeys. Jillian dreams of one or the other literally every night, down to the subconscious level firmly being yoked to both. Like all Equines, their visual perception is dominated by contrast, light and dark, and therefore shape.
Green's work depicts shapes associated with the boys and their environment. Weaving with wool came to her after a couple of particularly long wet winters. Given donkeys do not have protective oils in their skin, the need to protect from the weather became a concern, shapes of shelter, rugs and coats entered their arena. This occasionally figurative language of soft geometry continues to evolve.
Both exhibitions are on now until 27 October 2024. BRAG is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Entry is always free.