May 2024 - April 2025
Historically textiles and craftwork were largely regarded as a form of domestic ‘women’s work’, which refers to the often undervalued, unpaid jobs and chores stereotypically associated with, or assigned to women. However, feminist discourse and the inclusion of textile art into the contemporary arts sphere has led to a new appreciation for textile works made by women
Statistics show almost half (45%) of Australian women have experienced a mental health challenge at some point in their lifetime. Both within and outside of cultural and artistic institutions there are compelling examples of how women have found solace, healing, self-expression and connection through craft and textile-based practices
Spanning over 70 years, She Who Persists shares artworks and stories of women’s mental health experiences and the innovative, creative, and resourceful ways they have engaged with craft and textiles to manage and persevere through adversity and challenges
Including works rarely shown from the Cunningham Dax Collection, She Who Persists showcases the power of tactile activities to provide a means of stress reduction, self-expression and connection with others, which can help to support mental wellbeing amidst challenging times. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the intricate tapestry of women’s experiences with mental health
Exhibiting Artists: Sonia Agosta, Violet Billman, Jessie Brooks-Dowsett, Romy Dwosh, Carol Frieling, Emily Fitzsimons, Edith Agnes Harrington, Barbara Joyce, Chantal Larante, Robyne Latham, Eva Marks, Daniel McKenzie, Carol Maxwell, The Bridge Group and Esmé Sky Walker
