Ararat Rural City Council is pleased to announce that Sleeping, Dreaming, Waking, a new exhibition by Naarm-based artist Susan Wirth, has now officially opened at Ararat Gallery TAMA.
The exhibition presents a series of textile collages developed through Wirth's research in and around Ararat and the Wimmera Mallee. Using found textiles and second-hand woollen blankets, Wirth explores connections between place, visitor status, settler heritage, material history, and contemporary textile practice.
To celebrate the exhibition, community members and visitors are invited to attend In Conversation with Susan Wirth at Ararat Gallery TAMA on Saturday 12 September, from 2pm to 4pm.
The free public program will see Wirth joined by Ararat Gallery TAMA Coordinator Katy Mitchell for a conversation about the ideas, research, materials, and processes behind Sleeping, Dreaming, Waking. Bookings are requested to assist with catering and seating.
Mayor Cr Bob Sanders said the event offered a valuable opportunity to hear directly from an artist whose work has been shaped by time spent in the region. "Ararat Gallery TAMA continues to bring thoughtful and engaging contemporary art to our community, and Susan Wirth's exhibition is a wonderful addition to the gallery program," Cr Sanders said.
"This is an opportunity for people to meet Susan, hear about her connection to the Ararat and Wimmera Mallee landscape, and gain a deeper understanding of the stories and ideas within these works.
Wirth's practice spans sculpture, collage, and video, often drawing on second-hand and found materials.
Her low-relief textile works and site-responsive installations use layering, accumulation, and reconfiguration to consider everyday experience, perception, and the complex relationship between settler identity and place.
Sleeping, Dreaming, Waking is now on display at Ararat Gallery TAMA.
In Conversation with Susan Wirth will be held at Ararat Gallery TAMA on Saturday 12 September 2026, from 2pm to 4pm. Entry is free, with bookings requested.
Bookings and further information are available via the Ararat Gallery TAMA website: araratgallerytama.com.au/event/in-conversation-susan-wirth.
Photo: Susan Wirth Untitled (detail) 41cm x 43 cm wool, cotton and polyester Photo Matthew Stanton
