Rosanna Raymond MNZM, Image courtesy of the artist, Photographer: Rebecca Zephyr.
This installation weaves together historical collections from the National Gallery of Australia with contemporary works from the SaVĀge K'lub collective.
The SaVĀge K'lub, conceived by artist and scholar Rosanna Raymond in 2010 references the gentleman's club, of the same name, established in London during the nineteenth century. The capitalisation of VĀ privileges the Samoan notion of vā, a relational space between people and things central to Moana-based creative practices and protocols: primarily honouring the relationships formed during art-making.
As a collective, the SaVĀge K'lub celebrates diverse art forms and cultures, engaging in collaborative efforts to acti.VĀ.te individuals and objects and explore notions of hospitality, sovereignty, queer identities to celebrate all forms of art and culture.
The installation is conceptually based on a paepae, a concept found in various forms and functions throughout the Moana Nui [the region of the Pacific Ocean]. Paepae exist outside the main marae [communal or sacred space], forming a threshold across which things pass back and forth. Paepae are often used to ceremonially reveal a village's measina [cultural treasures]. In Aotearoa it is also a place for ceremonial speeches and retelling; remembering histories and genealogies – bringing the past alive in the present.
Te Paepae Aora'i is a place to present cultural treasures, both static and living, artistic and ceremonial. A place to create new memories; and construct our past, present and future: A place where the gods cannot be fooled.
Curator: Rosanna Raymond MNZM, Adjunct Senior Curator, Special Projects
Event Details:
Dates: 29 Jun 2024 – 10 Mar 2025
Location: NGA - Level 1, Gallery 11
Tickets: Please book a free Gallery entry ticket to gain admission to the National Gallery. We encourage you to book ahead of your visit.