In 2018, M&G NSW’s IMAGinE Awards acknowledged Excellence by an Aboriginal Curator

ACHAA Award for Excellence by an Aboriginal Curator

Bianca Beetson
Myall Creek and beyond
New England Regional Art Museum

The Art Museum along with The Friends of Myall Creek Memorial, Armidale Aboriginal Keeping Place and University of New England produced a program of exhibitions, public programs and a symposium that explored the history and on-going impact of the 1838 massacre of Aboriginal people at Myall Creek.

Bianca Beetson was engaged as a guest curator to develop the curatorial direction of the NERAM exhibition. In this role she was responsible for selecting artists to, firstly participate in research residencies at the Memorial and surrounding region, and secondly produce new works responding to the history and site.

Beetson’s curatorial approach is discussed in her catalogue essay; The title, Myall Creek and beyond, refers to a very specific place, whilst the word ‘beyond’ could be interpreted as meaning to forget or move on. However, in the case of this exhibition ‘beyond’ means deepening and expanding the conversation. The artists selected for this exhibition were chosen for their ability to create work which does exactly this: deepen the conversation.

Beetson provided an essay and interpretive texts, directed the exhibition design and contributed to a number of public programs in the exhibition. She was also an important part of the dialogue with the community and ensured that sensitivity and protocols were implemented at each and every stage of the project.

Other 2018 Nominees

Cherie Johnson | The Lock-Up: Transmission
Donna Biles-Fernando | Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery: HUNTER RED: Re(A)d Earth
Laura McBride | Australian Museum: Gadi
Emily McDaniel | National Art School Gallery: Measured Response