School Holiday Workshops
JXSH MVIR Portraits for Kids presented by Josh Deane

Join artist Josh Deane (Palawa) in exploring the new exhibition “JXSH MVIR – FOREVER I LIVE” through self-portraiture, identity, colour, connection and the power of symbolic language.

Josh Deane will take kids through a tour of the exhibition with his own reflections on Josh Muir’s style, influence and significance.  He will then lead the group through the creative process of drawing their own self-portrait, using a template that was originally developed by Josh Muir himself.

• All materials supplied.
• Light catering provided.
• Free but bookings required.  
• This is a workshop suitable for kids 5 – 15.
• All kids must be supervised and assisted by an adult.

BOOK HERE

• First Session: Wednesday 3 April 2024, 11am – 12:30pm
• Second Session: Tuesday 9 April 2024, 1pm – 2:30pm

JOSH MUIR

JXSH MVIR FOREVER I LIVE is a retrospective exhibition of artworks by the late Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta and Barkindji artist Josh Muir (1991 – 2022).

The exhibition highlights the strength of Josh’s artistic practice and the important contribution he has made to First Peoples art and culture in South East Australia and contemporary art nationally and internationally. The works in the exhibition not only reflects Josh’s ongoing artistic legacy, but Josh himself immortalised through his art. They also showcase Josh’s love of family and community, and draw on a range of themes including cultural identity, the impacts and legacies of colonisation, mental health, addiction, personal loss and grief.

This exhibition has been proudly curated by the Koorie Heritage Trust with Josh’s mother, Justine Berg and partner, Shanaya Sheridan as co-curators.

JOSH DEANE

Josh Deane, an emerging award winning Indigenous artist from Melbourne, Victoria, uses his contemporary art to inspire and preserve cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from Australia’s biodiversity, his artwork captures the beauty of native flora and fauna. Through various mediums, including photography, film, and hand-painted pieces, Josh creates a multi-sensory experience for viewers. His personal journey of overcoming family violence and drug dependency fuels his motivation to transform experiences into inspiration. Josh actively engages with the Indigenous community, collaborating with brands, creating murals, and showcasing his work at events. His talent and dedication have earned him recognition, including sold-out exhibitions and collaborations with fashion week. Josh’s social media excellence has also been acknowledged as a Kinaway award winner, allowing him to connect with a wider audience. He believes in the power of art to bring about positive change and empower others. Through his work, he represents diversity and amplifies the voices of marginalized communities. Josh Deane is an artist who uses his talent to inspire, preserve culture, and create a better future.

In 2023, Josh won the Lendlease Reconciliation Award as part of the 11th Koorie Art Show.

Josh Deane (Palawa), photo by Hoang