The public space gallery was officially launched in Egans Lane on Friday, September 16.

The community gathered to celebrate and share the 100 photographic images, murals and projected artwork all translating traditional Jerrinja aboriginal language. 

Respected Elder, Aunty Delia Lowe opened the event with a beautiful welcome to country speech sharing the significance of land and country to Jerrinja, the saltwater people.

“Our young people are making history through this photographic project and sharing their own connection to our culture and country, I am so proud of our young people today, you are helping us to ensure our language is not lost and recorded for future generations,” she said. 

Project Manager Alex McNeilly said the strong support for the project will now see the free exhibition extended until Saturday, October 29.

“It was great to see hundreds of friends and guests with us for the official opening and exhibition launch but more so a very proud moment for our ten young artists from the Jerrinja aboriginal community who felt overwhelmed by the community response,” he said. 

“The community have asked if the exhibition could be extended beyond next week so that more people can attend, enjoy and connect with the exhibit.”

At ten-years-old, Danielle Baron-Wellington is the group’s youngest artist and said she hopes to follow her newfound talent. 

“We learnt how to take good photos and keep a record of our family,” she said. 

“I really liked it and I want to become a photographer.” 

See more on the story behind Jerrinja Exposed – A Creative Project here