Benjamin Millar
CS Gallery’s newest exhibition is offering visitors an artistic insight into the experience of first-generation Australian women and their connection to the Australian bush.
Award-winning textile artist Sofie Dieu has been working closely with 50 migrant women living in suburban Melbourne to embroider symbols of water, flora, fauna, immigration, and womanhood.
Created in partnership with the Victorian Immigrant and Refugee Women Coalition, the ‘Longing for Home, Water Ritual’ exhibition features more than 60 of the resultant embroideries as part of the centrepiece of the installation – a three-metre diametre dress.
Dieu, who teaches design theory at Monash University, has degrees in textile design and sculpture, and visual art and contemporary practice.
She has collaborated with leading mental health and refugee advocacy organisations, receiving numerous residencies and awards for her art.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik is encouraging people to visit the exhibition at CS Gallery in Caroline Springs and reflect upon their own connections to Australia’s unique landscape and the experiences of those who have come from afar.
“It’s wonderful to not only showcase another acclaimed artist at CS Gallery, but to celebrate the artistry of so many women and their diverse experiences,” she said.
“This is a truly beautiful and unique exhibition and I hope all our residents will take the opportunity to visit the gallery and explore this show.”
The exhibition will be on display at CS Gallery until October 6.
Details: melton.vic.gov.au/exhibitions
