RE: Richard Young

The Artist’s Statement:

"In an era defined by profound societal shifts and deep-seated challenges, "RE" is a call to action. 

My collection aims to navigate the troubled waters of black cladding/washing, the misappropriation of art styles, and nuanced debates around self-identification, while also casting a critical eye on the art industry’s authoritative stance on 'real' Aboriginal art.

"RE" stands as a defiant invocation for change—a clarion call to rewrite, reimagine, and restore our shared cultural and societal landscape.

At the heart of "RE" lies a critical examination of iconography, purposefully selected to challenge and confront the covert racism and contemptuous attitudes that persist within our society—whether they manifest unconsciously or are overtly displayed. This exhibition leverages powerful symbols and imagery to question the authority of those who, from positions of privilege within the art industry, academia, and the performative activism, claim the right to define Aboriginal identity, art and culture.

Through this deliberate choice of iconography,"RE" seeks to illuminate and challenge the underlying attitudes that contribute to the marginalisation and misrepresentation of Aboriginal people and our cultures. Each piece serves as a counter-narrative, inviting viewers to re-consider preconceived notions and to engage with the complexities of identity and cultural expression in a more informed and empathetic manner.

My collection is more than a presentation; it is a passage through the roots of genuine cultural expression and a bold statement against the forces that seek to dictate the narrative of what is 'authentic'. It advocates for a future where respect and understanding form the bedrock of our interactions, free from the colonising narratives that have historically marginalised our voices.

"RE" is my contribution to the resilience and indomitable spirit of communities that strive against the tide to preserve their heritage, retell their stories, and reshape the societal landscapes that attempt to confine them. This body of work is both an acknowledgment of our collective past and a steadfast commitment to a future where the cultural strength of Aboriginal peoples is not only recognised but deeply revered.

I invite you on this journey to reflect, to challenge, and to embrace the transformative power of re-evaluation, respect, and re-establishment. Together, let's engage with the iconography of "RE," rewrite our collective story, reimagine our potential, and restore the essence of our shared humanity, confronting and challenging the covert racism and contemptuous attitudes that seek to define us from the outside." - Richard Young, 2024