Water Country flowing through Tarnanthi
In honour of Tarnanthi’s tenth anniversary, this article explores exhibitions that have amplified First Nations efforts to protect Country, and specifically Water. The exhibitions featured are connected by their shared circumstances of being made in response to damage caused to the natural and cultural environments. The sentiment Water is Life underpins each work discussed. Water truly is life for the many First Nations people and communities who are deeply connected to Water. The nature of colonialism has meant that Water is not viewed in this way, rather Water is merely seen as a resource — something to exploit. It is this ideology which has resulted in colonialism continuing to leave its traces on Water Country in ways that are almost impossible to erase.
