Portraits of our Elders is set to open at the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre this month, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives, stories, and enduring spirit of Aboriginal Elders from the South East.
Open from 14 June to 20 July 2025, the exhibition brings together a series of powerful photographic portraits, showcasing Elders in the places most sacred and meaningful to them. These images will be displayed throughout NAIDOC Week 2025, forming a collective portrait of strength, wisdom, and deep connection to Country, community and culture.
"This is a timely and important exhibition for the Riddoch to be hosting and we are very proud to work in partnership with the community to delivery it," Riddoch Curator Chris Clements said.
Presented in partnership with Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation and supported by the City of Mount Gambier's Creative Arts Fund, the exhibition is part of a broader storytelling initiative led by author and journalist Charlotte Lovett, who has spent months gathering oral histories from each Elder whose portraits have been captured by photographer Wanita Robinson. These personal narratives will be published in a companion book, scheduled for release in July 2025.
"Portraits of our Elders is a celebration of culture, truth-telling, and the lived experiences of First Nations people," Charlotte Lovett said.
"It invites all of us to listen, learn, and honour the knowledge that our Elders carry. It has been an honour for both Wanita and myself to be allowed a glimpse into the complex, difficult and deeply personal stories our Elders have carried for decades."
In the spirit of promoting healing and understanding, the exhibition aligns with national efforts to acknowledge Australia's complex history and embrace open, honest conversations. Each portrait not only captures a face but also a lifetime of resilience, leadership, and cultural legacy.
"This project is vital in ensuring that the voices of our Elders, their story and legacy, can be heard and passed on. It is my hope that the next generation of Indigenous young people, as well as the broader community, can benefit from the transmission of the knowledge of and connection to Country, as well as the enduring spirit and resilience of our beautiful Elders." Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation Managing Director of Language and Education Tara Bonney said.
The Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm weekdays and 10:00am to 2:00pm weekends and most public holidays. Entry is free.
"This is an unmissable opportunity for local community and visitors alike to stand in solidarity with our Elders, recognising their critical role in shaping our shared future," Mr Clements said.
