Artwork a memorial to Pinjarra massacre
The victims of the Pinjarra Massacre will be honoured in a special exhibition at the Rockingham Arts Centre this month.
The exhibition will bring the small town's history to a larger audience and enable the Nyungar people to have a visual podium to share the story of the massacre of the Bindjareb Nyungars at the hands of a group led by Governor James Stirling in October, 1834.
This display of artwork is an interpretation of Nyungar life before and after the event.
Twenty one victims have been uncovered through research and each artist has adopted one or more of these names, giving each of the 21 artworks special significance.
The artwork that each artist has produced stands as a monument to honour the individual people. Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said the artworks told a significant story.
"It is important to remember our history, particularly the stories of the local Nyungar people," he said.
Co-ordinator Karrie-Anne Kearing said she hoped the exhibition encouraged people to explore their own stories.
"This wasn't the only massacre in WA," she said.
"We offer this story as a symbol to people whose massacres were not recorded."
The exhibition will be open to the public 10am to 2pm daily from April 22 to 29. Local school groups are encouraged to share the history and culture.
Talks for school groups will be conducted on Wednesday, April 22, by Nyungar artist, Sharyn Egan.
For more information, contact 08 9249 3479 or email artmoves@artonthemove.com.au .
_People of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage are advised that works in this exhibition contain images of deceased persons which may cause sadness or distress. _
