Mining: Gouging the Country

Issue 33:4 | December 2013

Editors: Stephanie Britton and Pat Hoffie
Initially defined as “Terra Nullius,” Australia is now recognised as an ancient, mineral-rich continent of hotly contested territories. The contrasting spiritual and economic value of the land has led to debates about exploitation and custodianship with increased relevance in relation to climate change. This issue digs deep into the seen and unseen impacts of big mining and its rapid and ruthless exploitation of fossil fuels. It explores tensions between the damage of mining operations, such as the threat to ancient rock art, the arts patronage of large mining companies enabling cultural and community development and locating artistic activity in mining culture.  
National Gallery Australia Australian Body Art Festival NAVA Neoterica Samstag