Josh Muir, Powerful Aboriginal Art Exhibition On Now
In the heart of Melbourne, a powerful and poignant exhibition is currently on display at the Koorie Heritage Trust, paying tribute to the late artist Josh Muir.
Open daily until mid-July 2024, this retrospective piece at Federation Square showcases the extraordinary talent and profound impact of the Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta, and Barkindji artist.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Josh Muir, where art, culture, and community converge to create a lasting legacy that will continue to resonate for generations.
>> Tap here to head straight down to our tips and tidbits on visiting the Josh Muir Exhibition.
JXSH MVIR FOREVER I LIVE
Exhibition Dates: 9 March – 14 July 2024
From his vibrant digital prints on aluminum to his immersive video installations, each piece in the collection is a testament to Josh Muir’s talent. It’s a captivating experience to see an unwavering commitment to sharing his truth with the world.
One of the standout works in the exhibition is “Skip To My Lou,” a striking digital print that captures the essence of Josh’s artistic vision.
Through a blend of traditional Indigenous motifs and contemporary techniques, Josh invites viewers to engage with the complexities of cultural identity. The enduring resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of adversity, a key element.
Free Curator Tours
Head along to a Lunchtime Curator Tour of JXSH MVIR: FOREVER I LIVE, being held every Wednesday in May, 2024.
On the free guided tour, Koorie Heritage Trust curators Gail Harradine, Travis Curtin and Jessia Row lead an exploration into this first major solo retrospective exhibition.
Free curator tours are held at the Koorie Heritage Trust Inc, Birrarung Building, Fed Square, every Wednesday in May at 1 pm.
About the artist: Josh Muir
Josh Muir, who tragically passed away in 2022, left behind a remarkable body of work. It explores themes of cultural identity, colonization, mental health, addiction, personal loss, and grief.
Through his art, he not only expressed his own experiences but also sought to spark conversations and reflections on the enduring legacy of historical injustices faced by First Peoples in Australia.
The exhibition, curated by the Koorie Heritage Trust in collaboration with Josh’s family, offers a comprehensive look at his artistic journey.
Showcasing Contemporary Indigenous Art
As visitors explore the exhibition, they are invited to delve deeper into Josh’s world, where vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and powerful symbols create a visual narrative.
Each piece offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of being First Peoples in a modern world. Viewers are led to reflect on their own connections to land, culture, and community.
Beyond its artistic merit, the exhibition serves as a celebration of Josh Muir’s life and legacy.
Through his art, Josh continues to live on. His voice echoes through the gallery walls, reminding us of the importance of storytelling, resilience, and the enduring power of creativity to inspire change and healing.
The artwork was very colourful, and the exhibition by Josh Muir was incredible.
His paintings all told interesting stories. Something I had never seen before was having an iPad device that when you held it up and pointed towards certain paintings on the pillars, they just came alive and moved! Amazing.
-Terrie
Shop KHT
Explore the Koorie Heritage Trust Shop for a truly distinctive shopping experience, including exclusive merchandise as part of Josh Muir: Forever I Live.
By supporting the Koorie Shop, visitors not only take home a piece of Aboriginal artistry but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Koorie heritage.
The Koorie Heritage Trust also runs an informative walking tour. Read more about our experience on the tour here.
Entry and Accessibility
Getting to the Koorie Heritage Trust art gallery is easy via public transport as it’s located within 200 metres of Flinders Street Station.
Access to the Level 2 and 3 galleries is via an escalator (going up only) or 23 steps with handrails. Lift access is available, see the front desk on the ground floor or phone 03 8662 6300 before your visit. Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are available.
JXSH MVIR FOREVER I LIVE: A Tribute to the Legacy of Josh Muir
- Exhibition Dates: 9 March – 14 July 2024;
- Open daily from 10 am – 5 pm;
- Entry is free;
- Free curator tours are being held every Wednesday in May at 1 pm;
- Lift access and disabled toilets onsite;
- Stop by Shop KOORIE for exclusive exhibition merchandise;
- Highly recommend doing the Koorie Heritage Trust walking tour;
- Visit Mabu Mabu for lunch, located just next door;
- Location: Koorie Heritage Trust, Birrarung Building, Fed Square;
- Getting there is easy via public transport within 200 metres of Flinders Street Station.
Koorie Heritage Trust, Yarra Building, Federation Square, Cnr Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000, 03 8662 6300, koorieheritagetrust.com.au
