Barkindji artist displays Kaleidoscopic photos at Goldfields resort

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A new exhibition from award-winning Barkindji artist Kent Morris has been unveiled at RACV Goldfields Resort.

Karta Kartaka presents digitally constructed photographs centred on the karta kartaka (pink cockatoo), inspired by the Barkindji Creation story and the bird’s connection in the ancestral order.

Recently added to the national threatened species list due to habitat lost and invasive species, the exhibition reflects the resilience of the karta kartaka, and the layered histories of colonial impact and ecological change.

This marks Morris’ second exhibition at RACV, with the artist previously presenting a suite of works including a significant commission for his RACV City Club exhibition, Sites of Sovereignty, in 2024.

The exhibition opened on September 12 and runs until  November 29.

Mr Morris said the kaleidoscopic network of patterns throughout the works were inspired by the First Nations cultural knowledge embedded in Country.

“A karta kartaka in a hollow tree is part of the two Ngatyi (Rainbow Serpent) creation story which recounts how Barkindji Country was formed by two rainbow serpents travelling,” he said.

“The repeating patterns speak of infinity through a First Nations’ lens. They represent moments of transformation, of deep time cultural forms reinforcing ancestry, sovereignty, continuity and renewal amidst adversity, and the undeniable wisdom and knowledge of millennia.”

Mr Morris’ photographs are taken at Old Mutawintji Gorge on Barkindji Country- a site with deep meaning for the artist.

“Capturing moments of cultural continuity in the warm clear air on Barkindji Country provides a space to think and reflect, a First Nations experiential mindset of sitting respectfully, listening to and seeing Country; being part of a silent ancestral system of sustainability and strength.”

Currently residing on Yaluk-ut Weelam Country in Melbourne, Mr Morris is an alumnus of the Victorian College of Arts and the National Gallery of Australia’s Wesfarmers Indigenous Leadership Program.

RACV Head of Visual Arts Mardi Nowak said Mr Morris’ works revealed the enduring presence of First Nations knowledge, culture and language.

“By manipulating nature to create new forms within his photographs, he reinforces how First Nations culture continues to survive and adapt despite ongoing colonial interventions,” Ms Nowak said.

“Previous RACV visitors have loved his distinctive photography style, so we’re thrilled that a new audience at RACV Goldfields Resort will discover his works.”