EXHIBITION
DVA Gallery One
Opening 6pm Friday 16th of April 2021
Showing from the 16th April | 1st May
Work inspired by the current climate and environmental crisis and yearning for serious commitment to political activity within First Nations and Australian peoples.
David Dalzell uses the majestic wildlife of the Australian continent and human architecture, specifically parliamentary houses - the symbols of modern decision making.
He plays with perspective between our built landscape and Australia's natural wildlife, exploring tensions between decisions and their environmental impact. The work helps to convey a warning of uncontrolled change. To aid this, David contrasts the control of pen and ink work with the more spontaneous, energetic elements of fiery watercolour, or the organic representation of sea level rises.
The artist’s inspiration grew from the mythology of the First Nations People of the Top End - the wildfires brought by the red-tailed black cockatoo's bright plumage, harbingers of the dry season. There is a sense of beauty and danger in Australia’s natural heritage; the precious and vulnerable species in need of protection, and the hope for refuge and call to action from its voiceless occupants.
Ray Hayes moved to the Northern Territory in the early 1980’s to work in Yirrkala and then Darwin. He was a passionate advocate for Human Rights, Labour Rights, Land Rights and the Environment. Ray assisted Yothu Yindi in obtaining the initial funding for band. He advocated and assisted Aboriginal people throughout his working life at Bagot Community and with the Larrakia Nation.

Elemental is Darwin Visual Arts’ first exhibition of 2025, showcasing the diverse talents of our artists as they explore the elements in both literal and metaphorical forms. This inspiring collection presents vibrant and thought-provoking works that celebrate the forces shaping our world and the essence of existence.

Explore the 'Palimpsest of Life' exhibition, a thought-provoking visual arts project that reimagines memento mori. This PhD journey connects a personal reflection on death to the global warning of the Anthropocene. Concepts are explored through portraiture and suggested landscapes, reflecting on life's fleeting nature and our collective legacy.